I have been working the same job for a year now. Throughout this time, coworkers have entered and left the business. As I leave for college myself, there are many people that I am leaving behind. Some have just arrived, while others have been gone for a while. Through and through, there are the co-workers, and ex-coworkers, that have left their mark on me. And for this, I could never thank them enough.

As the seasons went by, whichever day my shift was on and who I worked with, completely controlled the type of shift I had. There were perks whether I worked a slow Monday or a rushed Saturday. On weekdays, we were able to talk about everything we were going through and get to know each other. Whereas weekends formed and strengthened our teamwork skills. It got to the point where they could practically read my mind.

This past year has, by far, been the most difficult year I've ever encountered. My co-workers created work as my getaway. They allowed me to escape all of the drama and worries that I faced outside of those five-hour shifts. During which, they made me feel supported and understood.

They have been the people that were there when I needed someone to vent to and make me laugh. Some have brought out the silliest side of me. I love being so close to them. They are my friends. They are my family.

We're not all the same in the slightest. Each of us is, at least slightly, different in age and we have various backgrounds. Growing up in a private, Catholic school, there was always very little diversity. Most of the students lived in the same relevant area and the majority had the same views and ideals.

Getting a chance to work with amazing people that differ from me has truly opened my eyes and enabled me to learn from them. Whether through experience or their logic, they have always given some of the best advice I have ever received.

This was the first job I've had, and going into it was terrifying. I never truly expected to come out of it, at least for the season, with the close knit bonds I have today.

My coworkers were not just the people that made work more fun. They helped me grow and most all, they are the ones who believed in me.

While others did not seem to give me a fair chance, they listened and discovered my story. As I too have uncovered theirs, I have found true friends.

From the coffee shots to lid frisbee, these are the memories and the people that I am so grateful to have been a part of my life. Going forward, I hope to maintain my friendships with them. Some I talk to everyday and some I will be seeing when I return during winter break. Either way, I am eternally thankful for these great people that have truly changed me.