Moving brings changes to life. Different city, different people, different life. All of this is real to Kennedy Kingston, sophomore.

Kingston moved from Chicago, IL to Wildwood, MO on Jan. 1, 2016, leaving behind friends, family and familiarity. Though the distance is small, the affect on Kingston was big. Describing the move, Kingston said that she knew it could happen.

“While my dad was traveling, my mom told be it was a possibility we might move, so I knew it was an option,” Kingston said.

However, even though Kingston knew that moving was probable, the announcement hit her hard.

“My parents told us for sure one night, and I just went into my room and bawled my eyes out. I got super sad randomly because it was always on my mind.  I stopped focusing on school because I wanted to spend more time with my friends, which affected my grades, which caused even more stress. It’s hard to describe because it didn’t feel real, but I knew that when it would finally hit me, it would be awful,” Kingston said.

After saying goodbye to her two best friends, it was time to leave. In the car, Kingston prayed and cried.

“I finally understood what people meant when they say they feel like there was a hole in their heart,” Kingston said.

Despite the pain she felt during the move, Kingston has kept a positive attitude about her situation. She has put herself out there and has been open to the new school, environment, and people.

“It’s been super good. It still doesn’t feel completely real sometimes, but I’ve been blessed so much. I still get lonely sometimes, and I always miss home, but it’s the best it can possibly be for the circumstance,” Kingston said.

Kingston has some advice for those facing a move.

“Be positive and have an open mind. You have to be outgoing; also, remember that it’s not about you. It’s about who you can serve, love and be a friend to,” Kingston said.

Having now lived in Wildwood for over two months, Kingston is starting to feel more comfortable, even though she still misses Chicago.