I went to college knowing someone from my hometown, which isn't uncommon, but my school is small and very focused on specific careers, so it's less likely than at most schools. What was even more unlikely was that the person I knew was my friend, so I was very fortunate. Although nervous, I knew that I wouldn't be alone. It made everything less scary. Through her, I was also able to make new friends outside my major and I instantly had a strong support group.

I am so grateful to have her and all of my friends that I've met because of her because I don't know if I would've survived without them. However, because of this familiarity, it took me a little longer to branch out to other friends, friends in my major and still, to this day, most of my program doesn't know exactly who I am.

Fortunately for me, this semester I took time to meet some of the amazing people in my program and it has truly made all the difference in my second semester. This year is coming to a close and I won't see some of my, now, closest friends until next school year or longer. So this is for every one of my friends I've made at school; the ones who have been there for me the entire year and the ones who have accepted me and loved me so willingly even though I took a little longer to warm up.

Thank you for being here for me. School is stressful as is and the fact that I'm living alone, away from my friends and family has made it even harder. I'm so grateful to have so many wonderful people I can call up almost any time and count on. From the silliest concerns to the days where I really just can't handle life, you've all been there for me, letting me rant, letting me scream and just hanging out with me.

At home, I've found friendships have been forged over time, months and years, becoming stronger slowly. But with each and everyone of you I feel a connection that happened almost instantly. We've gone from strangers to acquaintances to best friends in a matter weeks and months. You have shown love and care for me, a practical stranger, that I have never experienced and I am so grateful.

Thank you for being complete weirdos too. For making stupid jokes and laughing at my obnoxious and repetitive catchphrases and obsessions. Thank you for acting like kids with me. I think that us all being kids together has been the most important part of growing up. You all are some of the most hilarious people I have ever met and you make me laugh. I love spending time with such unique and creative people. I always have a great time when I'm with you.

Also, it is so refreshing to be around people who understand me, who are like me. I've never found such a passion for our art and our craft anywhere else, not even in my high school theatre program where, admittedly, I was constantly surrounded by theatre geeks. You've taken passion for the art to the next level and it inspires me everyday. You're all so incredibly talented, it shocks me.

Not only that, but you've all eliminated this constant air of competition I've always felt. Just like personally, you all support me artistically. You want me to reach the best version of myself as an actor. Without jealousy or judgement you have lifted me up, encouraged me to grow and complimented me on my progress. I will never be able to express my appreciation.

Most of all, thank you so much for being in my life. I've changed for the better for knowing each and every one of you. Whether you're going for my degree or not, whether we've been friends since August or anytime after that, thank you for brightening my life, encouraging me, supporting me, inspiring me and being my friend. I'll miss you all over the summer.