Out of State Problems

Things to know about Out of State:

When looking at schools, you tend to look at your In-State schools, or private schools.
Well don’t be fooled, there are plenty of awesome state schools that are great, even out of state.

So while searching, check out some out-of-state state schools. They might surprise you in their awesomeness.

But here are 3 things to know when you’re applying or attending out-of-state

1.    The numbers don’t apply to you

While looking at a school, you will check the average SAT/ACT/GPA and, hopefully, breathe a sigh of relief when you see that you’re right in that zone.
Don’t be fooled though, for most state school the standards are much higher for out-of-state students.
If you’re concerned about it, I would email your regional dean (or talk to a rep) and ask what the out of state to in state application ratio is. I know for my school it’s 2/3 of the applicants applying for 1/3 of the spots (out of state).
If your school has Naviance (or any kind of record of who applied/got in) check it out. The results might surprise you.

2.    They still might be cheaper than a comparable private… but the aid may not be there

While looking you might notice that the sticker price for the school is pretty great. It’s thousands of dollars cheaper than similar private school. BUT financial aid at a state school, out of state, is mediocre at best. So keep a close eye on that while evaluating. The resources are going to go to the in-state students first, every time.

3.    Culture Shock

When you go to a school in a new region of the country some things are bound to be different. This difference is only emphasized when at least 2/3 of the student body is from the area.
The high numbers of instate students can also be a little scary because it seems like everyone knows each other. This dissipates after the first few weeks, but can be intimidating at first.

You can get used to anything… but some things may always be strange.
I will never understand why there would be gravy at breakfast, nor will I ever truly understand the appeal of grits. But that is, in part, why I love my school so much. The strange little things that you don’t find back at home.

I’m absolutely in love with my out-of-state school. But there are a few pitfalls that you need to be prepared for while looking. Avoid being a fish out of water by keeping a close eye on the in-state and out-of-state differences.