For the past two years, I’ve been homeschooled—and no, it wasn’t always easy, and it definitely wasn’t just “school in pajamas.” It was a whole different way of living and learning. And now that I’ve just started a new international school program, I finally have some perspective on what homeschooling actually gave me (and where it let me down).
This blog is for anyone curious about homeschooling—maybe you’re considering it, maybe you’re already doing it, or maybe you’re just wondering what it’s really like behind the scenes. Here’s the honest truth.
🌟 Why I Chose Homeschooling (And Why I Stuck With It)
My journey into homeschooling wasn’t exactly planned. Like many others, I started due to circumstances that made traditional school less ideal. But over time, it turned into something more intentional. It wasn’t just about staying home; it became a personal experiment in learning differently.
And for a while, it worked really well. I had the freedom to set my own schedule, the chance to study subjects I actually cared about ( Law and Spanish!), and the space to be myself—without the constant pressure of social drama or rigid rules.
✅ The Real Benefits of Homeschooling
1. Personalized Learning, For Real
Homeschooling allows you to move at your own pace. If I didn’t understand something, I could slow down and take my time. If I loved a topic, I could go deeper. No waiting for the whole class to catch up. No speeding past what I didn’t get.
2. Flexible Daily Routines
Some days I started at 9, other days I needed a slower morning and got going after lunch. I still studied, I still completed everything—but I did it when I was ready, not when a bell told me to. That flexibility gave me the time to walk my dog, help at home, and fit in exercise or creative projects. It made life feel more balanced.
3. Space for Real Passions
In traditional school, there’s rarely time for “extra” interests unless they’re part of a club. But at home, I had time to ride horses, learn how to sew, explore creative writing, and even make handmade crafts. My learning wasn’t limited to school subjects—it blended with real life.
4. Learning to Be Independent
Homeschooling made me responsible for my own progress. I had to plan, research, manage my time, and actually wantto learn. There was no teacher hovering over me. That forced me to grow up a bit—and I’m honestly grateful for that.
👎 The Not-So-Great Side of Homeschooling
1. It Can Get Lonely
Let’s be honest—there were days it felt like I was missing out. While others were making memories at school, I was doing quiet lessons at home. I didn’t have a class, or lunch breaks with friends, or after-school clubs. And while I stayed in touch with people online, it’s not the same as being part of a school community.
2. You Have to Be Self-Motivated
Homeschooling sounds dreamy until you realize you are the only one making yourself study. There’s no one to push you if you don’t care. And a lot of students—if I’m being blunt—don’t make the most of that freedom. They use homeschooling as an excuse to do less, not more. If you don’t have some level of self-discipline or at least curiosity, homeschooling can leave you behind.
3. Limited Access to Resources
There were things I simply couldn’t do at home: science labs, group projects, debates, and team sports. I missed out on those collaborative moments where ideas spark between people. While online programs can help, some experiences just can’t be fully replaced.
4. Parents Matter. A Lot.
Another reality? Homeschooling only really works if the adults in your life are supportive and involved. You need guidance, encouragement, someone to hold you accountable. I was lucky to have that, but I know not everyone does—and that can make all the difference.
💬 Who Is Homeschooling Really For?
After two years, I’ve come to believe that homeschooling can be amazing—but it’s not for everyone.
Homeschooling might be right for you if:
- You’re self-driven and curious (or want to become that).
- You have supportive adults who can help guide or oversee your learning.
- You need flexibility for health, travel, or lifestyle reasons.
- You want to dive deeper into personal passions, not just pass exams.
But it might not be ideal if:
- You struggle to stay focused without structure.
- You need social interaction to stay motivated.
- You feel overwhelmed managing your own time and learning.
- You’re not getting any real support at home.
And one thing I’ve seen a lot? Some homeschooled students don’t use their time wisely. They watch the clock, rush through lessons, and never really learn. Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you’re automatically growing. You have to choose it every day.
🌍 A New Chapter: International Schooling
This year, I made a big switch. I’ve just started a new program through an international school. It’s online, but structured. I have classmates, set lesson times, and a global perspective. And honestly? I’m loving it.
It feels like the perfect middle ground. I still get the flexibility of being at home, but now I’m part of something bigger—a school community, real deadlines, teachers I can talk to, and classmates from all over the world. It challenges me in new ways.
I’m especially excited about getting feedback from real teachers, having regular group work, and being in an environment where learning is more active and social again.
💭 Final Thoughts
Homeschooling shaped me in ways I’ll always be grateful for. It taught me to think for myself, to manage my time, and to learn because I want to—not because someone told me to. But it also made me realize how much I value structure, feedback, and connection with others.
There’s no one “right” way to learn. But if you ever consider homeschooling—or if you’re in it now—just know this: it can be powerful if you treat it seriously. Don’t waste the opportunity. Dive in, stay curious, ask questions, and build habits that will serve you for life.
Because in the end, school isn’t just about textbooks. It’s about growing. And that can happen anywhere—at a desk, in a stable, or on a couch at home with a cup of tea.