I 100% thought people who got pets in college were crazy. The schedule of a college student and the constant change is not exactly conducive to the responsibility of a living thing. Then I got a kitten in April of my junior year. And of course, now I could not be more confident it was the right decision for me. Her name is Potter (because Harry Potter obviously), I originally thought she was a boy (she has since forgiven me), and I have bonded her in a much deeper way than any childhood pet I had growing up. Since we recently had our six month anniversary of being a family (I feel slightly silly calling the two of us a family so if anyone has a better classification let me know), I wanted to share the many reasons having a cat has made my life so much more full, more joy, more love, and more fun.

1. She provides constant companionship.

While I can't necessarily take her everywhere you might take a dog, my room is my sanctuary and we spend lots of time there together.

2. She is an introvert's dream.

I love one on one or alone time and don't necessarily seek out large group activities often. Having a cat means that I always have company when I want it and she expects nothing but petting from me.

3. She provides so many laughs.

Potter is quite smart and can open cabinets, pull out drawers, and climb into interesting places. She keeps me on my toes and cracks me up constantly.

4. She extends my empathy.

I have never been an animal person. Yes, I know they're cute and fuzzy and cuddly, but I have never desired to have one of my own other than the cat I got for Christmas when I was seven that I quickly lost interest in (sorry Mom and Dad). Now I worry about Potter, hate leaving her for any amount of time, and also care deeply about other animals and I know that would not have happened without her.

5. She loves cuddles

You always hear of cats being aloof and rarely wanting attention. Wrong! Potter loves cuddles all of the time, especially in the morning when I need to get out of bed.

6. She loves naps more than I do.

Potter loves naps. I thought I appreciated a good afternoon nap before I had her, but those naps were nothing compared to these. At night Potter needs her space (as do I), but during the opportunities we have for an afternoon nap, she snuggles right up against, and sometimes on me. It is , the best.

You may think I am crazy for getting a pet in college like I used to think of my peers, but Potter and I are quite happy with our lives and I wouldn't change a thing.