To every one of my friends who is graduating,

Wow. You did it! It seems like just yesterday you began this crazy journey of discovery they call college. It’s amazing to see just how much can change in four years, and even more awesome to see how much will always stay the same. I’m torn between wanting you to stay here with me forever and being so excited for you as you go out and chase your dreams (or at least chase job opportunities for now).

In all the hustle and bustle of graduation day and moving out, I didn’t get to say everything I wanted to tell you. But, it’s important, so here’s what I want you to know before you go off and leave me.

1. Keep in touch.

I may not be right down the hall anymore, but I still want to know what’s going on in your life. Sure, Facebook is great, but I want more than just the occasional picture or new life event in my newsfeed. Call me and tell me about the cute diner around the corner from your new apartment or about the latest antics of that adorably quirky kid you get to teach. In return, I’ll keep you up-to-date on all the latest news around here if you really care to know.

2. Don’t ever forget where you came from.

You’re building your own little life, but that doesn’t mean you have to leave everything behind. Some relationships will inevitably fall by the wayside as life goes on, but you still have an army of friends and family who love and care about you. Build them into your future!

As you go out into the world, remember you represent a larger community. That school on your diploma was your home for four years and everything you accomplish from now on is a testament to the preparation, training and support you received there. Do us proud!

3. You’re an adult now. In the real world. Act like it.

College is a time to figure out who you are, pull all-nighters just because you want to have an epic movie marathon, and eat pints of Ben and Jerry’s when you need a snack (at least once a week).

In college, you make unforgettable memories with those spontaneous adventures and late night antics. Now that you’ve graduated, though, you have real world responsibilities and sleep deprivation probably won’t prepare you very well.

I can guarantee that you will continue to have advice thrown your way in the coming months, so I’ll spare you the epic novel on the topic, but I want you to know I am so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. Thank you for serving as my role model, my confidant, my best friend and my partner in crime.

I will miss your smiling face around campus, but I look forward to seeing how the people you meet in the years to come will be blessed by all the unique experience and eccentricities you have to offer.

Now, get off your computer and go celebrate! This is your time, so soak it all in. Congratulations and good luck!