Going into my first year of college, I repeatedly was told, "You're going to change so much in these four years." After completing my first year, I know this is true.

I look back at who I was a year ago, and I can't even recognize myself. I'm glad that I can't... I never want to stop growing.

The people you surround yourself with shape who you become. The new people I've met this year and the old people who stuck around have all shaped who I am today. They showed me things, took me places and overall influenced who I became this year.

I am so grateful for all of you. Nobody thanks each other nearly as much as they should, so I wanted to dedicate this article to the people who made my first year of college unforgettable.

To my sorority sisters:

Wow, wow, wow. I never could've imagined all that this sorority would bring me. I am inspired daily by the women in this chapter.

I have a house full of women that are driven, loyal and ready to motivate and encourage me whenever I need. It's unreal. Of all the things I gained this year, Delta Gamma was by far the most influential.

To my two new best friends:

Emily and Baylee, I have no words for how grateful I am to have met both of you. I would say something cheesy about how I know you'll both be in my wedding someday, but you would probably make fun of me for it.

Baylee, laughing as hard as I do with you gives me endless amounts of joy and can make even the worst days seem better. Thanks for always eating chicken nuggets and Hot Cheetos with me.

Emily, you are the definition of my partner-in-crime. Of all the things Delta Gamma brought me, you are by far one of the best. Thank you for always being down for literally whatever, whether that may be getting into trouble or ordering from Uber eats.

To my boyfriend:

Josh, you are the most unexpected thing I received this year.

Before I met you my life revolved around one thing — me. I liked it that way because I didn't have to depend on anybody else or let anybody in.

You changed all that. I knew from the night we met and we spent hours talking that I didn't have a choice — I'd been looking for someone with a mind like yours.

You softened my heart that I had hardened from others for so long. I had forgotten what it felt like to be pursued, cared for and protected. Thank you.

You have a quiet understanding of the world around you that impresses me daily. You've shown me so much, and I've enjoyed getting to see the world from your eyes.

To my best friend and roommate:

Kate, we got our first jobs and cars together so it would only make sense that we lived together our first year too. Having sleepovers every night with you has meant the world to me.

This year has taken us in two different directions, but you are still my best friend. You were there through the worst time in my life and the only light I had in that darkness. I haven't forgotten that and I never will. You have more loyalty than anyone I know.

To my parents:

Thank you for giving me this year. I know it may have felt that you were getting placed on the back burner, but the independence I gained this year has meant the world to me. I have an entirely new appreciation for both of you.

As the year ends, I couldn't be more grateful for the people I have in my life. I am so glad God gave me each one of you, and I pray I get to keep you all for as long as possible.