I went to a community college for my first two years and lived at home. I then transferred to a college majoring in a field that I had decided not to pursue but then allowed others to convince me to do it. I experienced one month of living in a dorm away from my parents and then quit. (should have listened to myself in the 1st place - very expensive lesson!)
I didn't go back to school for 10 years - a failed marriage and 3 children later. So I never really experienced that big, college experience you're talking about. However I did get my bachelor's degree working my *** off while being a single parent. I noticed that my education meant more to me than my younger counterparts. My children attended my graduation and were proud of their mom. It also reinforced to them how important education is to their lives.
I'm 49 years old and have a daughter in her 3rd year of med school and another in her 3rd year of college thinking about law school. My youngest has a reading disability and still maintains an A-B average. She works her butt off, but she does it. Both of my girls were able to experience the whole "going away, living in a dorm" college life. I'm happy for them. I also know that I have lived my life the way I was supposed to... I've had ups and downs -- and not getting the college life I wanted is very low on my list of things I didn't get or that I regret.
I don't know how old you are, but please remember that is just a very small part of your life. I hope you don't spend too much time feeling bitter about it and realize there is so much happiness out there for you to grab. You're a grown up now and can do as you wish. Take the bull by the horns and do what makes you happy!
Peace,
Lori
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