Managing expectations Learn what to expect from a college's setting before you go and, better yet, before you make your final decision. For example, if you live in Los Angeles and go to school in a rural area of Montana, don't be shocked when you can't get anything you want, whenever you want it. Similarly, if you're from a small town in Montana and go to school in Los Angeles, realize that you may miss the big sky of your home state. To get the big picture, visit campuses, talk to students, and read campus and local newspapers. If you get to campus and don't feel anchored to the school or its location, you're not stuck.
Many schools offer an option to study abroad or off-campus for a semester or a year.
You can also transfer to another college or program. Keep in mind, too, that a college's location is only one characteristic, however significant. Use College Search to see which colleges match your preferences. Ultimately, you determine what experience you'll have at college. You need to evaluate who you are, places you like, the activities you enjoy, and how easily you adapt to new situations.