Living Away From Home

No matter the distance, moving away from home for the first time may seem both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. That’s why we asked current students to share their freshman year dorm stories.

“Moving away from home was actually easier than I expected. Sure, I cried a lot when my parents first left me—I was alone in my dorm room with a new roommate and totally different surroundings. But as I began to meet people on my floor and become immersed in classes, I started to find my place and groove. Now I look forward to returning to Bradley after long breaks…it’s become my second home after all!” – Noelle B.

“The ride in the elevator up to my dorm after saying goodbye to my family was teary-eyed. But once I made it back to my room, sat down with my roommate, and started looking over the welcome week schedule, I got excited to be on campus. While the first month away was a transition, being away from home has allowed me to grow into the person I want to be. Freedom may be scary, but it’s also an exciting opportunity.” – Abby P.

“At first, I was really scared to move out of state to a school where I knew no one. It was the first time I would be away from my family and friends for longer than a couple of weeks. After just a week of being at Bradley, I wasn’t scared anymore, and I met some girls in my dorm and classes that are still my best friends today! I’m so glad I made the decision to come to Bradley, even though it was a little out of my comfort zone at first. Now, I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.” – Kallie I.

“Moving away from home was nerve-racking for me as I was the only one from my high school to attend Bradley, so I knew no one. That changed quickly as I started meeting new people and friends. I got involved with activities I love right away, and that turned my nervousness into excitement” – Gillian A.

“Moving away was scary at first, but I was excited to get to know my friends from orientation more. I remember falling more in love with Bradley during Welcome Week and getting to experience new opportunities made the move worthwhile.” – Kayla L.