Dear Freshman Year,

Can't believe it's the end of April and I'm almost ready to say goodbye to you. Two more weeks and I'll replace you with a new title: Sophomore. I don't know where to begin. You've given me a lot.

You've taught me that there's always more to learn. I've been a scholar for 16 years, but I still don't know everything. You've opened my eyes to new perspectives, twists, and challenges. Each class you've offered has stretched my thinking, wrecked preconceived notions, and sparked my curiosity. I've been able to read some really captivating books, explore some cool theories and ideas.

You've brought me even closer to God, showing me that the one thing I can always, always count on is His constancy and love. I have experienced that time and time again this year. Even through the difficult things you dished out, like long papers and anxiety, stress and feelings of insecurity and defeat, I was able to see Him work it all out. Everything turned out okay. You've shown me that He always has a bright spot ahead: a weekend, an open road, an encouraging word from a friend. I haven't been alone through any of it. And I won't be alone as a Sophomore, either.

You've introduced me to some great role models. I have been blessed with some terrific professors and staff this year! Their passion for God, for serving Him, and for helping young people is undeniable! They are vibrant individuals that offer so much insight into what walking this Christian journey means. Thank you for them. Thank you, too, for all the relationships I have built this year with my peers. You've introduced me to some incredible people and even allowed me old friends to continue to journey with. God has brought me to my amazing future roommate and I am so excited to take on next year with her!

You've taken me on a new creative journey: something called Odyssey, I think? You dangled an opportunity in front of me that meant taking a step into unknown territory and I fell for it. And I'm so beyond glad I did. Thank you.

We had our differences - you really knew how to annoy me beyond belief. There were times when I questioned why in the world I was allowing you to have such a huge chunk of my life. But I'm starting to see that you were only helping me grow. And because of that growth, I can't stay a freshman forever. You've prepared me well: for harder classes, for new people and new experiences. Thank you for helping me get this ball rolling. Thank you for helping me find my place even more in this journey. I'm about to close this chapter, but I will always have a piece of you with me. Thank you.

~Meghan