I’ve always thought of Emory as just that school in Decatur or Druid Hills. It’s not too far from home, and the CDC is right next to it. Reflecting on these high school thoughts now, it’s hard to believe I spoke so casually about such a remarkable school. I never really saw myself going to Emory, especially for graduate school. I had always planned to get my MPH outside of Georgia, but here I am, a first-year MPH Epidemiology candidate at the Rollins School of Public Health and I’m glad I chose this school.
If you’re from Georgia and have been eager to leave the state, let me give you three reasons to consider staying and applying to Rollins.
Reason #1: Commuting gives you the freedom of having your own space, whether you live with your family or in your own apartment/housing. Being farther from campus allows you to escape the noise and busyness, which is much needed during grad school. I love coming home to my room and seeing my dog. It’s nice to keep school and rest separate, both in proximity and mentality. As a commuter, I believe work-life balance can come easier due to this separation. Even just being away from other students can provide much-needed mental clarity and balance.
Reason #2: Commuting helps improve your time management skills, which are essential life skills. Living about 25 minutes from Rollins, I always have to plan my arrival time, unlike those living nearby. It’s been an adjustment, but it’s definitely worth it. When I have meetings or events, I plan ahead, and this has helped me in the long run. I treat my commute as time to listen to music and mentally prepare before I “lock in.” Without that flexibility, I think I’d feel a bit off, so I’m grateful for my commute.
Reason #3: Commuting encourages you to keep exploring Georgia. Being on the road gives you more opportunities to see parts of the state you might not have otherwise, whether it be alone or with friends. For example, on my way to Rollins, I pass a local market that’s usually open. They sell fruits, nuts, and even cakes! If I lived by Rollins, I wouldn’t be able to pass by this beautiful market every day. If you live close to campus, you’re mostly surrounded by Emory buildings, restaurants, and grocery stores. I feel like commuting gives me a deeper appreciation for Georgia and the metro Atlanta area.
So, if you’re reading this, you probably already know that Rollins is a great school (it is!) and are considering applying. I’m not here to convince you of that. Instead, I hope my three reasons encourage you to stay in Georgia because, as a commuter, I’ve gained so much; financially, mentally, and physically.
Rollins Student Ambassadors 