Seeking out some different perspectives...

<p>During spring break, my mom and I visited several colleges in the local area. Being outside of Philadelphia, we are in an excellent place for college visits--such a vast selection!</p>

<p>Well, here's my issue. We visited a school again (we had gone to a fall visitation day) and were impressed yet again. I haven't mentioned this school in any of my previous posts. Beautiful campus, neither urban nor in the middle of no-where, a relative safety for my stats. I was thrilled and completely in love the day of the visit and for about a month afterward. Also, I have been volunteering and shadowing nurses at the local hospital. It is an amazing feeling... I just know that's what I want to do. Fortunately, this U does offer a nursing program. I asked the nurse practitioner of its reputation, and she told me that it is 'respected'. She also stated that with the nursing shortage, if I do well in college and maintain a good GPA and pass the NCLEX exam, I should have no problem finding a job... no matter if the program is ranked #1 or #100.</p>

<p>Naturally, being a junior, I put the stress of college selection on the back burner knowing I had found a school perfect for me. This doesn't sound like a problem does it? Heh. Well, since this latest trip, the main issue (for me) is distance from home. It's an approximately 25 minute trip from my house to the campus. Does anyone have experience with staying so close?</p>

<p>I'm also worried that I'm possibly selling myself short a little? I have the reputation at school as a "work-a-holic" and a true lover of learning. The students at this U definitely weigh social activities more than academics. I don't know... I'm just kind of torn. A lot of my friends and teachers were surprised that I was interested in this school. I know I shouldn't value opinions that much... but still. I'm also doing an overnight in May.</p>

<p>note: apologies for typos and poor grammar -- sooo tired!</p>

<p>Don't let the proximity rule this school out!
Sure, you might want to explore some others choices. That will give you some basis for comparison.</p>

<p>Our son is only one hour away from home but we rarely see him. He has friends, LOTS of work to do, a girlfriend, football games, etc etc.
In other words, he has his own life and is loving it.</p>

<p>We are happy that should sonething serious come up, he is not around the world. But we NEVER 'drop in' on him.......</p>

<p>The distance from home should not be the prime concern in your choice. Don't worry what others might think.....that is way too high school!</p>

<p>Oh no! I'm not worried about my mom just showing up on campus. Ha ha. Sorry for being unclear. I'm more concerned that I wont be able to experience a new part of the country and be stuck in the area where I've always grown up.</p>