This time last year, I remember having no idea what was going to happen when I went off to college. I was graduating high school, leaving all of the people I had grown up with behind, and moving to a new place. I was constantly thinking about how I was going to have to make new friends, all the work I was going to have, and would I even like my roommate? (Luckily, yes).

A year later, I no longer have to worry. I will soon be free of studying and homework, and will be able to see my family, friends; and welcome sleep, the beach and sun. At the same time, I will be away from my closest friends, 3 a.m. conversations and endless memories.

Freshmen are often given a bad rap and are looked down upon among the upperclassmen. As a freshman in college, I can say, yes, sometimes I have no idea of what I'm doing, but I have mostly figured it out: like how to double-cup and to not use the trays in the caf.

I have learned that it’s great to have fun in college, but you are still here for an education, although some people tend to forget that part. Schoolwork isn’t easy, and every professor is different, but if you work hard it will pay off.

I never fully understood the statement “college will be the best four years of your life,” until the first one slowly comes to an end. This year has been one for the books, and it’s made me realize that the prior statement in every way is true.

Going away to school made me realize how much freedom we truly have here. I don't have to ask to go anywhere anymore; I just get up and go. I don't have a curfew; therefore, it doesn't matter if I come back at 10 p.m. or 2 a.m. My favorite part: I can miss class whenever I want (Although I promise, Mom, I'm not).

With sophomore year quickly approaching, it scares me how fast freshman year went by. Before you know it, it’ll be senior year, and freshman year will be but a fading image in my rearview mirror. But, I don’t think I’ll ever forget freshman year. You gave me my start here and you’ve paved the way for my entire college experience.

So as I pack up my boxes to bid farewell until August, I want to say a final thank you to my freshman year and to the people who made it so memorable. It would take me forever to single out each person who made a difference in my life in such a short time. But, if you are reading this, you know who you are. I cannot wait to return next year and create more memories with all of you.

To the best, worst, weirdest, dumbest, hardest, most exciting time of my life, I will miss you, but I will never forget you.