[Kate*]

Basically what Alex said You're going to college for you so if you don't like the school or don't want to be "trapped" somewhere you don't like then I would rule that school out. Going away to school can be hard because you are leaving your friends and/or boyfriend behind and long distance relationships are difficult, but they can work. If you really want to go to a school go for it. Your friendships and relationships will change no matter where you go. Leaving people doesn't mean that you lose them, it just means that the relationships change.

If not starting until January is the only reason you don't want to go to the school ( as in still living at home isn't an issue for you) there's nothing to be worried about. You aren't "behind" you just made a choice that's different than the average person and based on what is right for you. There are some people who go back to school in mid-late adulthood and there's nothing wrong with that. As Alex said, it's the fact that you go, not when that really matters.