As graduation approaches, many high school seniors face one of the biggest transitions of their lives: leaving home for college. Whether staying in-state or heading across the country, readiness varies from student to student. For some, the excitement outweighs the nerves, while others experience a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. The experiences of three students, Lizzie Billings, Isabella Rico, and Allison Altman, highlight how different paths can shape feelings of readiness.
Lizzie Billings, an alum who attended college in Hastings, Nebraska, reflects on the experience of leaving Colorado for the first time. Moving out of state can be intimidating, but preparation and mindset often make a difference. Billings felt ready for the change, embracing independence and new opportunities. “Leaving Colorado was a big step, but it felt like the right one,” Billings shared. “There was confidence in knowing that everything learned before college helped build the independence needed to succeed.” Her experience shows that stepping outside of a comfort zone can lead to growth and a stronger sense of self.
For Isabella Rico, the transition looks different but equally significant. Staying in-state to attend Colorado State University offers a sense of familiarity while still introducing new responsibilities. Rico feels prepared for this next chapter and views it as a balance between comfort and change. “Going to CSU feels like the perfect next step,” Rico explained. “It’s close enough to home to feel supported, but far enough to grow and experience something new.” Her perspective highlights how in-state schools can still provide independence while maintaining a connection to home.
Allison Altman’s journey reflects a mix of emotions that many seniors experience when leaving home. Preparing to attend Arizona State University, Altman is excited about new opportunities but also acknowledges the difficulty of moving away from everything familiar. “There are definitely mixed feelings about leaving Colorado,” Altman said. “It’s hard to leave behind friends and family, but there’s also excitement about starting fresh and building something new.” This blend of emotions is common for students heading out of state, where distance often makes the transition feel more real.
Ultimately, readiness for college is not defined by distance but by mindset. Some students feel fully prepared, while others grow into independence over time. Whether staying close to home or traveling far, each path offers opportunities for personal development, new experiences, and lifelong memories.
