I, just like every other freshman, was terrified on my first day of college. I was scared that I would get lost and be late to class. I was worried that I wouldn’t get along with my roommate and that I would miss home too much. But most of all, I was worried that I wouldn’t make any friends. And just like most other freshmen, I slowly found my footing. I made it to all of my classes without getting too lost (thanks to a small university and campus), my roommate and I – while not the perfect fit – were doing okay, and miraculously I had met a few people I could see being friends with. But what I didn’t know was that these people wouldn’t just become my friends, they would become my family.

When I first met you guys, I had no idea the kind of memories we would make and the kind of fun we would have. I didn’t know that going to bed at 5 a.m. even though I had an 8 a.m. class would be worth it just to stay up and talk about the most random things. I didn’t realize that our midnight Whataburger and Palmas runs would become like rituals, or that car rides could be such adventures. You made everything exciting and new. And it’s because of you all that my confidence has grown over the years. I wouldn't know that I could direct a play if some of you hadn't been willing to be a part of it. I wouldn't have joined the school newspaper if one of you hadn't pushed me to do. And let's face it, I simply wouldn't have survived four years of college without the constant love, support, and late night break down sessions you all put up with.

Together we have accomplished so much. With some of you, I’ve seen the world. We’ve studied abroad together several times, experienced getting lost in Rome, or walking up 100 stairs multiple times a day because we lived in an English manor home. Or with others, we've sweated our faces off at concerts trying to get as close to the stage as humanly possible. And with some of you, we’ve shared our inner most thoughts. Our fears and desires, providing each other a safe space to share anything and everything. Together, we've made enough memories to last a lifetime. There is nothing that we cannot do with each other by our sides -- and that includes eating a grande loco in under 20 minutes and pushing each other to eat that fifth plate at Hein.

Quite honestly, college would have been nothing without you. When I look back at the past four years and scan over the thousands of photos and videos, I see all of your faces, and I know that’s what I’m going to remember most. Saying thank you never seems to really cut it; those two words will never convey how much you guys mean to me and have done for me. So, I say them to you knowing that they will never really be enough. With graduation this past weekend, our goodbyes have been so bittersweet, but know that I will carry you guys with me forever. I will continue to carry the memories we made, the lesson you taught me, and the kindness you showed me, always.