Growing up, I was taught to care for others. My inspirations told me the Golden rule was key, and my idols preached kindness and care. We all learned from Ellen DeGeneres to "Be kind to one another." Selena Gomez did write a song called "Kill em' with Kindness," and Brittany Snow continues to tell us that, yes, love is louder than anything. For the past six to seven years, I have made it my mission to help myself. This includes surrounding myself with people who pick me up, and vice versa.

Coming to college led me to meet some amazing people. From classes to clubs, and all over parts of my dorm I've experienced it all. When I say "caring for my friends," I mean taking the time to remember the little things about them that are actually really important in their lives. I'm talking names of mothers and father, sisters, and brothers, their middle name, etc... they all think I'm a little weird for wanting to care, but, guys, if you're reading this, here's why I do it.

My professional goal is to be a high school social worker or psychologist. To do so, you have to be an avid listener and have a decent memory at the same time. I've known this for a long time. My whole life I would question what I would be when I grew up. Literally, whenever I was asked that question I'd say that I have no idea.

BUT!

When I was 12, something clicked in my mind and I knew that one day I had to sit in an office and listen to people about their problems. (I later learned this is called a psychologist/ social worker). You don't have to have a license to care about others. Sure, knowing that I can count on my brain to remember important details will help me in my profession; but it's important now that my friends realize that I listen to what they say to me.

*Not actual examples*

For instance:

Friend: "Jamie, my grandma isn't feeling well. She may have to go to the hospital."

Me: "Oh, do you mean [insert name]? I remember you were telling me how she wasn't feeling well. What's going on?"

or...

Friend: "My brother got the job! I'm so proud of him."

Me: "Oh, please. [Insert name ]? I knew he'd be a shoe-in."

or...

Friend: "My sister is pissing me off again."

Me: "Which one?"

*tells me*

"OK, this seems familiar. Let's talk about it."

* * *

Point being, from personal experience, I know how important it is to remember certain aspects of a person's life, especially if you know them for a long time. Asking who and why are fine for the first few days, but it's like constantly asking someone to repeat their name. It just gets annoying. So, I make this a point to know stuff about my friends.

Now, can I get annoying or creepy about this? Sure, but I don't do anything with the information. I may toss out a name here and there, but it's all in good taste. I don't recommend this if you don't know the people well enough, however. My friends and I have spent hours together do many things.

Playing video games, talking, getting dinner, and going on adventures in the woods. When you spend so much time with people who don't make you want to bash your head into a wall. So make it a point to know the minuscule, yet important, details about your friends. That way they know you are appreciative of them!

So to those who I call my friends, that's why I always ask. I am nosey, but I know they make you guys laugh. I do it cause I actually make it a point to care about your lives.

Thank you for putting up with my crazy antics and for being awesome people.