When you get to college, one of the most commonly asked questions is "Where are you from?" After answering that question with "Mesa, Arizona" countless times, I realized that there are a few things that there are a few things that bond people from Mesa together.

1. You've probably hiked Brown Mountain

A.K.A "Make-out Mountain," is just hard enough to qualify as a hike. Also, the view of the city is amazing.

2. You know that the Loop 202 is always under construction

There will always be some section of that freeway where you have to go 55 mph

3. You've probably had pictures taken at the Mesa Arts Center

Those stairs with the cool glass? The trees with sweaters? Classic.

5. "Oh, you're from Mesa? I know someone who lives there! Maybe you know them..."

Contrary to popular belief, Mesa is not a small town. Actually, it's the 38th largest city in the US! So no, I probably don't know them. Even if we went to the same high school, I probably don't know them.

6. The desert has been changed into neighborhoods and schools in your lifetime

You've seen the wide open desert go under construction for years, and then your friends have probably moved into that neighborhood or you went to that school.

7. You were stoked when we got another Chipotle

In the same plaza as Golden Spoon and Smashburger? Yes, please!

8. You get confused when other places aren't on a grid system

I honestly don't understand how people navigate when the streets aren't on a grid. Thank you, Mesa, for having all your major roads exactly one mile apart.

9. You probably have a lot of Mormon friends

For some reason, if they don't live in Utah, Mormons live in Mesa!

10. You know about the Territorial Cup rivalry... and you've definitely picked a side

Chances are you root for the Sun Devils #ForkEm #NoPityForTheKitty

Mesa is the perfect Suburbia-- there are plenty of small businesses, as well as chains. There are plenty of minivans and soccer moms, as well as snowbirds and their midlife-crisis sports cars. Basically, Mesa is the best place to be and I wouldn't want to have grown up anywhere else.