Mia Morelli - Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - For some Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) Seniors, college means moving across the country and starting completely fresh. For me, the dream has always been a little closer to home.

My top college choices are Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) and Florida State University (FSU). What made these schools stand out to me is the environment that surrounds them. Both offer the kind of atmosphere I can see myself becoming a part of while continuing my education.

Choosing an in-state college is more than just picking a school. I’m a very family-oriented person, so being able to stay relatively close to my family is important to me. I moved to Florida when I was 13, and after making a new life here, I don’t think I could see myself moving out of state again.

Even before I moved to Florida, I always envisioned myself living here. When I lived in Illinois, my family and I would frequently travel to places like Anna Maria Island and Walt Disney World. Florida always felt like a second home to me, so staying here for college feels like a natural next step.

Both FGCU and FSU also offer the kind of environment I am looking for. FGCU, located in Fort Myers, offers more than 160 student organizations, giving students opportunities to meet people and get involved outside of the classroom.

FGCU also gives me options academically. I am currently considering majoring in business, early childhood education, or journalism, although I haven’t made a final decision yet. FGCU offers several business programs as well as a journalism program that highlights hands-on reporting, writing, and editing experience.

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FSU is another school that interests me because of its campus atmosphere and school spirit. I am especially excited about the idea of experiencing the football season and being part of a large college community. I also look forward to meeting new people, making new friends and experiencing the independence that comes with college while still being in the state I’ve grown to love.

Staying in Florida also makes sense financially. Attending an in-state school can mean lower tuition costs compared with attending a public university as an out-of-state student. I am also applying for scholarships and looking into state financial aid to help make college more affordable.

Having family nearby would provide another kind of support. College will be a big change and knowing that the people I care about are still within driving distance gives me comfort. Some of my friends are also planning to stay in Florida or potentially attend the same schools, which means I can maintain important friendships easily while also creating new ones.

Although I haven’t decided exactly where I will end up or what I will major in, I know that I want my college experience to be somewhere that feels like home. Florida has been a major part of my life and choosing an in-state college would allow me to continue growing while staying connected to the people and places that mean the most to me.

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