Move away?

[virtue]

Hello fellow PM101ers,

 

I've thoroughly enjoyed gaining all the insight I have thus far from this forum. Thank you to everyone who has so willingly shared all of their knowledge!

 

This is my first post!

 

I'm currently considering my options for UG. Up until now, I had my heart set on going to the university in my city. It's a fairly large university, I have a research position there, know many of the profs/students etc. Though I had always referred to it as my "safe option". I have been looking into some options of schools that are away from my hometown. McGill in particular. Most likely for group 1 science (physiology major).

 

I feel like i'm torn.

 

If I move away, I'll get that "away from home" experience that will allow me to grow up, meet new people, experience life etc.

 

If I stay home, then I will be able to continue with my significant long-term EC's that I really do care about (volunteering at a hospice, foundation etc.)

 

GPA would probably be the same either way. Both universities are large schools. Not too much of a difference there.

 

What i'm worried about is the fact that if I move away, I will not have access to the EC's that really "define" me that I have back home. Will I be able to get those same relationships with people and organizations if I move away? Anybody have any insight or experience with this? How important are EC's in the grand scheme of things? I know GPA and MCAT come first. But EC's are still an important part of the application, right?

 

I want that feeling of freedom with moving away, but I don't want to loose my EC's. Which way do I go?

 

Thanks!

[pininkid]

Moving out of town is a great way to push yourself outside your comfort zone. With respect to EC's, it depends who you are--if you're a go-getter, you'll meet new people and find new opportunities no problem. In fact, you'll probably take it as a blank slate and use the opportunities to explore other aspects of yourself (i.e., outside of your current EC's).

 

On the other hand, if you're the type of person that's going to let homesickness and newness get the best of you, it's probably best to stay home.

 

Both have pros and cons. When it comes down to it, I'm sure you'll find new EC's and have the opportunity to form long-standing ones. Plus, moving away gives you something to talk about in your interview--it definitely falls into personal growth.

 

However... home is nice too.

[Tango Charlie]

There aren't similar EC activities available to you if you move away? I'd definitely get away if I were you. It's character building.

[kylamonkey]

You sound like someone I know.

 

There are pros and cons to both.

 

You'll still have time to develop long-term ECs if you're just starting university now.

Another thought- is there a way for you to continue your ECs you have now in the summer/christmas break?

 

I personally really needed to get away from home at that age. maybe you do too. Or maybe your family is cool, and you will have a support network ready-to-go.

 

Lots to think about- hopefully you're not starting this fall!