At the end of every spring semester, college students get ready to face the changes that the… At the end of every spring semester, college students get ready to face the changes that the summer will inevitably bring. For some, this means summer classes; for others, a part-time job or internship, and for still others, a summer lounging in a hammock reading romance novels.

But for those of us who are from outside the great city of Pittsburgh, one crucial question accompanies the advent of summer: Should we stay or should we go?

Since we live in Pittsburgh for eight months out of the year, it seems only natural to go home again for the summer months. Nonetheless, there are important benefits and downsides to staying in town.

One disadvantage to staying in Pittsburgh for the summer is that you’ll likely be living far away from the rest of your family. Depending on the relationship you have with your parents or siblings, it might be difficult to remain away from them for the whole year. During the semester, at least, you know you have the summer to look forward to being home among the rest of your family.

On the other hand, living away from your parents can liberating. Without their constant surveillance, you’re free to become a fully independent and self-sufficient human being. Staying away from home offers you the opportunity to experience true independence from your family.

For some, however, it’s easier to find jobs in small hometowns, especially if you know the right people. Personally, I’ve never had trouble finding employment when I’m home — my parents or friends were always able to connect me with opportunities.

But Pittsburgh also offers a plethora of jobs, especially in Oakland and around college campuses where businesses are sure to lose some employees when students return home for the summer. Just the sheer size and population of the city offers more opportunities for internships with bigger companies or more impressive jobs. The city has a lot to offer in the job market, particularly for young, bright college students.

Another advantage to going home is the ability to see old friends and visit with the people you might be too far away from to see while you’re at school. While it’s easy to keep in touch via Facebook, Skype, email or what-have-you, it’s always more enjoyable to see your friends in person and hang out like you used to in the old days.

If you don’t keep in touch with any of your old friends, however, it’s probably better to stay in Pittsburgh and maintain the new friendships you’ve made. There are so many local Pittsburghers that go to school here, chances are you’ve made friends with a few of them and could use the summer to foster your relationships without any homework hanging over your head. Summer offers an opportunity to embark on new adventures with your new friends.

The biggest advantage to going home is that it’s likely much cheaper. At home you have a warm bed, food in the kitchen and a couch — all for free. Especially if you work while living at home, you’ll have plenty of money to spend when you return to school. With rent payments and bills hanging over our heads, it’s a great relief to return for the summer, where your biggest worry is what sort of change you’ll find in the couch cushions.

However, maybe it’s worth the money to stay and experience Pittsburgh this summer. There’s so much we don’t encounter during the school year — events like Cinema in the Park at Schenley Park or even free music shows in Schenley Plaza. The summer months are perfect for getting some Dave and Andy’s ice cream and strolling through the city without the hustle and bustle of thousands of students surrounding you. With your free time you can visit museums, go to Pirates games, ride the incline, do anything you wanted to do during the school year but couldn’t because you had to study. Pittsburgh deserves to be experienced.

Maybe where you come from is a really awesome place, and you love going home every summer, but I would give Pittsburgh a chance. If for no other reason than to try something new, get out of your comfort zone, and experience an amazing city.

Contact Elizabeth at [email protected]