When applying for colleges there are a few things you should consider: does it have the degree you’re thinking about studying, can you afford it, and will it help you possibly make connections and get a job in the future. But kids nowadays are making distance from their home their number one priority which is costing them their education.
This generation feels the need to escape their parents and are willing to risk their education to feel more “independent”. There is no shame in commuting to an amazing school near you if it means you’re putting your education first.
I’m from Piscataway, New Jersey and I personally hear this ridiculous logic all the time. Piscataway is 5 miles down the road from Rutgers University. THE STATE SCHOOL OF NEW JERSEY. During high school a lot of people applied to Rutgers and got in, which is amazing. A lot of people commuted and a lot of people dormed, both of which are fine choices. But it’s the people who didn’t apply simply because it was “Rutgers” for whom I had no patience.
The logic behind many people’s decision was “it’s the high school of college” as if they’re really going to constantly be around the select few from high school in a school of 50,000 people. Rather instead of sucking it up and going to an amazing school they decide to go to a private school for twice the cost or a small irrelevant school an hour away. All of this to feel further away from home.
Personally I live 5 miles down the road but feel 500 miles away. I dorm at Rutgers and love it not only because I’m not living at home but because I know I’m getting the best education I possibly can.
Living far away from home isn’t as glamorous as it seems. This means doing your own laundry, making your own food, and paying for everything on your own. Not to mention you’re going to be home sick. So before you discredit a school that’s close to you remember to put your education first.