For some students, college is just a short drive away. For others, it means crossing time zones, states or even coasts.

In this episode of College Admissions Insider, we’re diving into what it’s really like to attend a college far from home. From culture shock to homesickness to learning how to fly solo (literally and figuratively), we’re sharing stories and insights that can help you decide just how far you’re willing — or excited — to go.

Our guests are Bucknell students Clara Carroll, a senior from Sacramento, Calif., and Terian Williams, a sociology major originally from Atlanta. Both have first-hand experience navigating college life far from home, and they’re here to talk travel, campus life, friendships and how going the distance helped them grow.

🎙️ In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• How Clara and Terian approached their college searches and landed at Bucknell.
• What it’s like to make cross-country moves — and the family conversations behind them.
• The travel logistics and support available to far-from-home students.
• How students stay connected to family while building community on campus.
• Cultural surprises, homesickness and the unexpected joys of a new environment.
• The financial and emotional considerations of attending college far from home.
• Why going outside your comfort zone might be the key to discovering your full potential.

Whether you’re considering schools nearby or nationwide, this episode offers candid advice and plenty of encouragement for students ready to explore beyond their hometowns.

Read a transcript for this episode.

If you have a question, comment or idea for a future episode, email [email protected].

Please note: Information presented in this episode was accurate at the time of recording, but may have since changed. Participants may have changed roles or no longer hold positions at Bucknell University.

Links:

• Get to know Lewisburg, Pa.
• Info about applying to Bucknell
• Application dates and deadlines
• Plan a visit to Bucknell
• @iamraybucknell, our student-run Instagram
• Build a Bucknell Custom Viewbook
• Latest news for prospective students
• Bucknell Virtual Welcome Center

When you visit campus for a preview session and guided tour, chat with our student ambassadors, or experience an interactive virtual tour of campus, you'll have a front-row seat as you explore this place we call home.

This combination of in-person and virtual visit offerings means you can learn more about Bucknell in the way that fits you and your family best.