<p>I'm applying ED to Cornell however, if I'm admitted and join, I'll be 1600 miles away from home. I was wondering if leaving your family, friends, and possibly losing your girlfriend for it is worth it in the end as opposed to going to a college in my home city?</p>
<p>yes, it's worth it :)</p>
<p>there is so much to see and learn in the world, don't stay in your hometown!</p>
<p>Depends on what the college in your home city is.</p>
<p>If you live in Athens, Ga., UGA is a pretty solid choice.</p>
<p>If you live in Berkeley, Ca., UCB is an excellent choice.</p>
<p>If you are not sure you want to be 1,600 miles from home, don't apply ED. That is a big and irrevokable decision. Going to college is a big step even if one isn't going to be that far from home. Take the time to think it through. Also consider applying to some colleges that are much closer. You have many options. There are far more options than going to school 1,600 miles from home or staying in your hometown.</p>
<p>I'd recommend not applying ED if you're not positive you'll want to move come next August.</p>
<p>if cornell is somewhere you really want to go, then go for it. i don't think you will regret it. consider your priority and go from there. for me, education is my first priority, and while it pains me that I am so far away from my b/f, 4 years apart is well worth a great education on both our part (i go to cornell, he graduated there and now attends UF med school). good luck in whatever you decide</p>
<p>One thing to consider based on an older sib's experience: those of his friends who either went away to school or moved out of the area (major suburban area of a major U.S. city) for a job after graduating college did much better professionally than those who stayed home either for school or a job. Those who stayed local didn't take big risks and have ho-hum jobs and salaries. Even a friend of his who was in the top 2% of their high school class is doing a job that's more administrative than anything else. Those who took the leap and took the risk grew a lot from the experience and have honestly been better able to tackle difficult challenges after graduation. </p>
<p>This is a sib who's a lot older, so it's been a very interesting observation. I already wanted to go to school across the country and this further clinched it for me. I'm ready for the risk and excitement.</p>