Should You Go Away to College?

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Going Away to College

When seeking higher education, the choices to make can include the field of study, whether to choose a two- or four-year degree, and much more. One of the most important decisions is often left up to chance. Many students will decide where they go based on who accepts them. It may benefit some students to choose if they want to go to a school in their home state or look for a more distant option before any other decision. Each choice has advantages and disadvantages, but the students need to select based on what they think matters most.

Advantages of Studying Locally

Consider the Cost

Most universities offer lower tuition rates for students that choose a school in their home state. Schools close enough to allow students to commute from home allow people to avoid the cost of dorm fees and meal plans. Those that plan to work through school may also benefit from a nearby university because they can work at one place of employment all year rather than seeking a leave of absence when each semester begins, or they leave for breaks.

Chance of Internship

Interning gives students a chance to have hands-on experience in their career field. Many internships can become paid opportunities too. The income earned may allow them to stay where they are through the summer, and this is much easier for students that can commute from home to do so. However, if the internship requires a student to find new living quarters because their family home is too far away, it may not pay enough to cover living expenses and tuition for the upcoming semester.

Support Systems Nearby

Remaining at home or close to home can enable students to have friends and family around for support and encouragement. The improvement in communication through texts and video chats diminishes this advantage slightly, as nearly everyone can instantly see and talk with loved ones. However, in-person contact and knowing loved ones are only a few miles away can help shy or nervous students adapt to adulthood more easily.

Familiarity of Surroundings

A college campus offers many new things to discover, and sometimes the uniqueness of it all can seem overwhelming. Some students appreciate having the ability to leave campus and surround themselves with the places and lifestyles they have known all their life. Familiar restaurants, beaches, and access to favorite radio stations and movie theaters can help to keep college students grounded and give a sense of security.

Advantages of Going Away

Choice of Education

Individuals who live in small states or areas with few colleges or universities will have limited options for the types of degrees they can pursue. As a result, some students may need to leave their state or even the country to get an education that will allow them to have their dream careers. The quality of schools could also become a consideration, as students often want to attend the most respected school possible. That desire could necessitate a long-distance move.

Chance for Independence

Some students feel nervous about being on their own, but others are ready for a chance to prove themselves. Independent living is one of the best benefits for students who want to experience adulthood. Attending a college many miles away from home can enable the student to have the ability to make all the decisions for themselves without commentary from parents, grandparents, and others. The freedom can boost confidence and make people more prepared for their professional lives.

Discover Something New

Staying local can allow people to remain with the same group of friends and maintain their old routines. The college experience will let them learn some innovative ideas and discover a few unique cultures through their classes and classmates, but it is limited. A new location can help people to see everything from an unfamiliar perspective. Through the experience, the student may discover a career opportunity they never imagined before. Many learn about new cultures, find new hobbies, and gain a desire to see more of the world.

Every student has their likes, dislikes, and needs. Attending college is the perfect opportunity for people to make the most of what they love or learn more about the world around them. The best solution is the one that makes the student the happiest and allows them to live the life they want. How far away from home to travel for school is a decision high school students and their parents should discuss before submitting any college applications.

CollegeFairsUSA.com provides High School students with the largest college fair directory on the Internet. See details of a vast selection of universities, including school videos generally produced by local students.

About the Author

Trey McCalver is the VP of Marketing for CollegeFairsUSA.com, a college fair service that matches the nation's top colleges and universities with highly qualified high school students. Learn more, and register for upcoming college fairs by visiting their website.