Concerning state ties

[MarE2Med]

Hello everyone!
So I'm working on my school list for next year. While combing through MSAR I came up with the following questions.

I was born in Westfield, NY where I lived until ~7 years old when my dad got a job opportunity in the midwest, where I currently live. I have a brother and several aunts, uncles, cousins still living around Albany, NY. Would this be considered strong ties?

Also, while I was in the military I was stationed in NC for 4 years. Have a few friends I regularly talk to who still serve there. Would this be considered ties?

 

[Goro]

For NY, no
For NC, yes

Having relatives and/or friends in a state are not ties.

Living in a state for a prolonged period of time is. Early childhood doesn't count.

 

[MarE2Med]

Good to know. Thank you Goro!