It’s time to leave Hillsdale.
People are designed to learn through new experiences, particularly in unfamiliar surroundings. The brain releases dopamine when trying something novel — we can’t be static for too long. Feeling tired of a familiar place and monotonous routine might mean it’s time to leave town for a day.
Past the miles of woods and fields surrounding campus, there are quaint towns and hopping cities with much to offer. Detroit, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Holland, Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Toledo are all less than three hours away from Hillsdale. Whether it’s seeing museums, trying new restaurants, or exploring a different college town, there’s so much to see and so many people to meet.
Last week, I traveled with a friend to Lansing to attend a Melkite Greek Catholic church. Not only did I attend a different liturgy than I’m used to, I also enjoyed fellowship and food with people who were happy to discuss their religious traditions and upbringings with me. And I likely wouldn’t have had those conversations in Hillsdale.
I don’t have a car on campus, so I often tag along with friends to get out of town. Last semester, a friend and I went to the Lansing suburbs every few weeks to get coffee, eat out, and shop at our favorite clothing stores and bookstores. We bonded over shared hobbies that just aren’t doable in Hillsdale. And we had fun without the demands of school looming over us.
Getting out of Hillsdale doesn’t mean going far. There are other towns nearby worth visiting, all less than 40 minutes away. Getting Culver’s in Coldwater or walking around Albion are more convenient day trip activities. In my experience, Target trips in Jackson and the occasional dinner in Jonesville are enough to get out of my routine and enjoy time with my friends.
This isn’t meant to put down Hillsdale. In fact, our comfortable, small town setting with its cafés, churches, and sweet neighborhoods is part of why I chose the to come here. It’s been my home for two years. I love it, and I see why those who’ve lived here for a long time do too. Hillsdale’s peaceful, homey atmosphere is great for education and forming a community. Yet regardless of how good a place is, being here for too long can feel draining to many.
Most college students don’t have time or money for weekly day trips. But don’t wait until breaks to leave Hillsdale. When you’re caught up in a routine, the semester will be over before you know it. Caring for the mind, body, and soul means taking a break from the everyday. A change of pace and scenery helps break up the time, and it will be easier to create and recall memories both on and off campus long after college.
Some of my favorite college adventures didn’t happen anywhere near school. Hillsdale may seem to be in the middle of nowhere, but opportunities surround us. Grab your car keys and check it out.
