<p>So, I'm a senior in high school right now, and I'm in a unique sort of bind. I really, really, really don't want to leave home next year. I don't know if this is a temporary cold-feet thing or what, but I'm just terribly adverse to the idea of going anywhere right now. My life basically sucked for the first three years I was in high school, due to the fact that everything I knew and loved was changing so much. And just when it seems like everything has fallen into place and I'm loving life again, it's time to go away?! I guess I just want to have two or three years when everything is familiar. </p>
<p>I have quite a good SAT score and GPA and whatnot, and a good shot at getting into Flagship State U out of high school. What I'm thinking about doing, however, is going to Local State U for my first two years and then transferring to Flagship State U. What do you guys think? Better to go all four years at Flagship State U, or first two at Local State U? All I know is that the idea of leaving home makes me queasy right now. I can't imagine I would be anything other than depressed and homesick for at least my first year at Flagship State U.</p>
<p>Remember that whether or not you go to the local or the flagship, most of your friends will be leaving, changing, & growing... even if many go to the same local, they will have new friends, experiences, and interests. You really couldn't hang on to the familiar even if you decided to do a 5th year at your high school.</p>
<p>My daughter had a similar anxiety-- the whole senior year college process was hard as she hates transitions-- but with encouragement she took the leap... and she has been VERY happy at a school that is very far from home. </p>
<p>Maybe part of why you are happier as a sernior than you were in the last three years is that you are now at an age where you know yourself better, get your needs met better, have more confidence, and have better ability to forge real friendships with the right people. Don't worry, these skills will not desert you in college!</p>
<p>I am not saying that Local U is a mistake, just that it will not preserve the sameness of your life when those around you are moving and growing, whether or not you elect to stay in place. </p>
<p>My advice: Pick the school that seems to best meet your needs and be a match with your personality and interests, whether it is close or far. Try to embrace the changes that are inevitablycoming, because they will probably be very exciting and lead you to new joys.</p>
<p>Apply to both, wait until all the results are in in April, find out who is going where and who is staying nearby, decide the night before the deadline. In the meantime, enjoy the next three months. :)</p>
<p>P.S. Also verify that transferring is a real option and won't be an incredible hassle two years down the road. Depends on the schools, the state, etc. Everyone's mileage will vary.</p>