Sorry if it's somewhat unformatted
When something bad happens to you when you are young it is probably one of the worst things that has ever happened go you. When we get older we gain perspective through experience.
I'm 29. I have been divorced, stabbed, lost a parent, and many other things.
A break up still hurts but I know life goes on.
To the teens out there. The people in your life really do love you. You're loved and worth loving. Life is an adventure. Sometimes you strike gold sometimes you strike out, but nothing is worse than getting old and not having any stories.
Picking a college:
First, throw friends, boyfriend, girlfriend out of the equation completely. If they are intended to stay in your life, they will. I know it sounds heartless but believe me on this one. Your college choice is the first real life altering decision most people make. Make it for you.
Money. You want to accrue less debt than your first year annual salary if possible. If you have to take on more debt to graduate from a particular school, go somewhere else (other than Ivy. I'd take the debt for that)
Parents/Closeness Your parents love you and want to see you succeed. The farther you move the more you should be calling them. That said, go to the school that feels tge best even if it is far away. Just make time for them.
If you go a long way away, spend your breaks at home. Skip spring break parties and spend time with them (maybe go one just one year.
Your choice in college should be centered around what you want to do with your life and where you want to live after. Some schools are more recognized in regions than nationally.
If you have roommates, it is a really good idea to have a few bottles of water in your closet so you don't have to get dressed to get your guest some water.
Have an extra good pillow, ideally two, one firm and one soft so your guest is comfortable. Also, buy good sheets. A good bed helps lead to repeat guests.
Along the same lines, keep a few extra cheep toothbrushes. Before bed when you are brushing your teeth you can ask him/her if he/she wants to use a toothbrush. Make sure to give it to the guest in an individually wrapped still sealed wrapper. You don't want to give off the perception that she's just another girl/he is just another guy and that you have a pile of extra brushes around. If your guest asks, just say they are in case you travel.
The right job is the job you love some days and can tolerate most days and still pays the bills. Almost nobody has a job they love every day.
Sources: things I have written on AR which have received gold.