Thanks everyone. I'm only 25 yet I'm questioning so many things. I'm excited for the new phase but scared too. I think what I am mostly scared of is the change.. I am already imagining some loneliness even though I know a handful of people who live there, and making new friends will be different too since I haven't gone anywhere in about five years. I do suffer from depression and anxiety as well but my therapist and I have been working together so that when I do experience episodes, I will know what to pull from 'toolbox' to help me get through those tough moments. Plus, I will be busy enough with full-time graduate courses and student teaching that I probably won't experience loneliness at all - just stress.

Occassionally, I do wonder if I am making the right decision. Am I ready for this next chapter? Am I going in the right direction? Each person I've told has expressed nothing but excitement and pride for my accomplishment. It is a lot like having cold feet, Kim_Johnson. I am ready but I keep feeling this pull that wants me to stay put and just pursue opportunities here. My good friend once told me that "change is necessary for growth" and that I will grow so much as a person once I take that chance.

The overall package is a pretty great deal. It's not every day that people find an opportunity like this and get accepted so I am very lucky.