As the 2017-2018 school year comes to a close, many seniors are beginning to prepare for life after high school. For some that may be working or for others, like Sam Nuezil preparing for college. Sam will be attending Chaminade University of Honolulu to study Forensic Science.
“[One reason I chose Chaminade University was because] I love that it’s a small college, so there is a very close-knit society; I won’t just be a face out of thousands of students, and because of the smaller class sizes,” Nuezil said.
With many students concerned about going far away for college, Sam will be an eight hour flight away from the Chicago area; however, she remains excited to start a new chapter in her life.
“I definitely had doubts with how far away it was, and it made me really nervous to think about at first. But I realized that it would be a good experience, and even though it’s so different, it’ll become my home. I will make so many amazing memories there,” Nuezil said.
Being so far away presents several struggles of figuring out how to move all dorm furniture and accessories to the island while also planning trips home ahead of time.
“I’ll be coming home for winter break and summer break, but not for Thanksgiving or spring break since they’re so short. For the breaks that I stay out there, I will most likely spend time with friends and hopefully do something fun, like camping, hiking and of course, spending even more time on the beach and surfing,” Nuezil said.
As many seniors made final decisions on where they were going to college, some found it easy while others found it more difficult.
“The warm weather played a role, though it wasn’t the main reason for my decision. My other top option was Northern Michigan, where it gets very cold. I hate the cold. I’m definitely glad I’ll be in warmer weather over the cold,” Nuezil said.