I know it's long, but it's complicated and I need help because I can't talk to my parents about this.

My number one choice for school (and pretty much my only option) is to go to school at a state school 5 hours away, in a very urban area (but with a HUGE park and some surrounding suburbs) with a solid academic reputation, in a cultural area (something I've always wanted) the perfect clubs/activities for me, lots to do, and I was acceppted at Honors program/housing. It has excellent internships, and it isn't too expensive so I could go to LAW school after.

I went to visit in the spring and I REALLY liked it, but when I went to visit this last weekend, I wasn't sure if it was right. I saw all the crappy parts of the city right next door. I'm worried 5 hours might be too much, (I didn't think that by my own really people just keep telling me its far) Ill be home as much as any other college student though! (About 5 times, each visit for days weeks, even a MONTH at a time.

Most of all, I'm afraid that I won't like LIVING in the city since I'm used to a rural environment. I can't tell just from VISITINg one day! How will I know if I like it for four years?

The money situtation won't allow me to transfer since schools don't give out money to transfer students.

My other option is to go to a close school that gave me a HUGE scholarship for a year then transfer, but I feel this is a "cop out option" and will leave me feeling disconnected and "stuck" in this place for another year

Should I go to my first choice?? Where I had a good initial impression but am now having doubts, or wait another year?

I'm so conflicted. PLEASE HELP!

Growing up in a rural area may cause you to like the city even more, once you aquaint yourself with it. You can walk to most every store. Go, try it out. Going into the city is not a prerequisite to attending the school is it? Don't let those dirty alleys scare you, it's the people you decide to hang around with that will steer you social life.

Five hours from home, not far. But far enough that you will begin to develop your independence from home and family. If you are not ready to leave home just yet, the closer school is waiting. I say, go away to school.