Graduation is just around the corner, as is a place that instills both worry and excitement whenever heard: college.

For the seniors, choosing the next step in their future is not a simple task and does not happen with the push of a button. There are countless options to consider, anywhere from joining the military to joining the work force; but for most, college is the answer.

“Yeah, I’m excited,” senior Michele Cribbs said. “I’m going to move on and pursue my education.”

Many factors are taken into account, and living in a dorm vs. living at home is one that influences the decision the most.

Senior Calvin Baker believes that staying in a dorm is the only way “to get a good college experience.”

The majority of graduates will attend a college or university that is a good distance away; therefore, they are compelled to live on their own.

“I don’t want to drive two hours each way,” Baker said. “It’s easier to stay [at Clarion].”

Sharing a tiny room with barely any personal space or time does not sound at all pleasant to some seniors, though. Cribbs is content with furthering her education at a local college, St. Vincent, all the while indulging in the luxuries of home sweet home.

“I figured I’m not going far away and I can get more work done while at home,” Cribbs said.

What it mainly comes down to is personal preference, but the cost also plays an important role.

Housing alone for numerous schools is around $5,000. This may be a huge turn off for penny-pinching parents.

“It will save my family a lot of money,” Cribbs said.

Whichever way one examines it, there are pros and cons to both. Students, like GS grad Alesha Ferrett, who is in her second year at St. Vincent, have discovered the convenience that living on campus presents.

Cribbs realizes that there will be setbacks to living at home, such as not meeting as many people, but to her, the pros outweigh the cons.

“I’d just be more comfortable,” Cribbs said.

The opportunities are endless for the class of 2006, and it is up to each individual to choose the path he would like to take.