Coming to UVA as an Out-of-State Student

It’s time—May 1st is around the corner…you’ve narrowed down your list, but you still have to commit to one school. While the decision in itself is already stressful, there are numerous factors you have to take into consideration that make the decision even more difficult…like to go to school in-state or out-of-state? It’s okay, we got you! Take a deep breath. Picture your dream school, is it on your list? Perfect, you have your winner! Okay, I know it is easier said than done and everyone’s scenario is different. While I can’t speak to your personal decision, I do know this: UVA is an incredible school! If the decision to go in-state or out-of-state is based purely on personal preference (not finances, scholarships, accessibility, etc.), then allow me to ease your mind on why coming to UVA out-of-state is worth it.

As a fellow out-of-stater myself (shout out west coast), I cannot imagine myself attending any other university and there is no doubt in my mind UVA was the right decision. It can be scary coming to a new place, let alone a new state, but the UVA community is incredibly welcoming and will help you settle right into the Charlottesville scene. With UVA’s student being mostly “Virginian” (67% to be exact) you might be worried that a lot of people will already know each other and not be welcoming to new people—I had the same fear. What I have found is the complete opposite and even if a lot of people are already acquainted or friends, they are looking to meet new people just like you. Most people just want people to experience UVA with, regardless of what coast they are from. There are even some people who are hesitant to come to UVA because they know too many people! Students are generally just excited to be here and want to share that experience with people who are just as happy to be a Cavalier. Plus, there are so many ways to meet people on grounds (click this link for our blogpost on it https://cy3ku7.wixsite.com/figureitoutuva/post/how-to-make-friends-in-college).

Maybe it isn’t meeting people that has you hesitant to attend UVA as an out-of-state student, maybe it’s the distance. Yes, there are weekends where your friends will go home or even breaks where people go to see their families, but you might not be able to. If this is the case, there are so many things around grounds and the area that you can do to kill your time. Take the bus (or walk) to Barrack’s Road! Go to Stonefield to see a movie or finally get your groceries from Trader Joe’s. The Downtown Mall is right next to grounds, go and checkout the record shop or bookstore (or visit the other Christian’s location). If these don’t seem like appealing options, checkout what events are happening on grounds or join a club…there are so many clubs. And yes, even with fun activities there will be times where you are lonely or wish you could go home for a night, but remember this is normal and happens to everyone, even in-state students. College is a time of growth and adjustment for everyone! Even if it’s the first time you are leaving home, or the first time you have to be independent, I promise you are not alone!

The decision on whether to stay in-state or out-of-state can be a big one and at a time where you already have to make one big decision it can feel impossible. I promise you that no decision you make is a bad one and if you are willing to take the chance to move to Virginia, I promise you will feel right at home at UVA!