By Annabelle McIntosh — Opinions Editor 

Need a change of scenery? Looking to learn more about yourself? Want to become more independent and responsible? Moving out of your hometown is an incredibly beneficial experience where all of this can become possible. 

I graduated high school at age seventeen. I moved out of my small hometown to study at Bishop’s. I did not know many people at the school so I truly got a taste of what it is like to start fresh. I was intimidated at first since I was a very shy kid. However, that all changed once I became a part of the Bishop’s community. I made many friends who also came from different cities through involvement in clubs, sports and living in residence. I got out of my shell and felt like I could be myself in this new town. I still have these same feelings today in my fifth and final year. 

Moving away from home for the first time meant living in my first apartment. This was a huge learning experience. I had to learn how to trust myself and take care of myself properly. For example, going grocery shopping and cooking for myself was a huge adjustment from living at home or in residence with the Dewhurst dining hall. This involved a lot of trial and error, but I eventually got the hang of it. 

I can say with confidence that moving away from my hometown has also taught me responsibility. School deadlines need to be met, bills must be paid and housework will need to be done all while maintaining a healthy school, work and social life balance. You need to be able to rely on yourself for tasks to be completed. That being said, another important lesson was to not have shame in asking for help. Many other students are in the same boat, so it felt nice having a support system where we could share our advice, tips and anecdotes. 

New beginnings can feel intimidating, however, I do not regret my decision in the least. Moving out of my hometown is one of the best things I have done for personal development. This choice helped me make new friends, gain independence, develop life skills and learn more about myself. I encourage anyone debating moving out of their hometown to do it. If you have recently moved out for the first time and are feeling nervous, give it time. You just might surprise yourself.