The last time that I had a close group of friends, I was in junior high. We went everywhere and did everything together, so when we went to different high schools, that dynamic was something that I really missed. And honestly, it was something that I sought to replace. However, making friends in high school was difficult for me since I did not know anyone upon entering and I am a very introverted person. Although I made some great friends throughout high school, I always felt slightly out of place because I did not have a defined group where I felt that I belonged. And even now, during my second year in college, I still do not have this co-dependent group that I've longed for throughout the years. But I'm starting to realize that I no longer want it because it is not truly necessary to my life. All I need are individuals who love and support me, and I know very well that I have them.

There is such an emphasis on making new friends and "broadening your horizons" as you begin your college years, which creates social pressure for people to put themselves out there, go to parties, and rush sororities and fraternities to meet new people. It makes more introverted people feel bad for not stepping out of their comfort zones enough, and it also makes people less critical of who they choose to call their friends. I agree that the connections that you make throughout these years are valuable and important to increase your exposure to different kinds of people and experiences. However, I have realized that when it comes to friendship, it really is a matter of quality over quantity. During these years, we should be more careful to choose our friends wisely, as they are the people that we surround ourselves with and are ultimately influenced by.

Since I began college, I have started to think of friendships more as investments rather than conveniences. I am no longer interested in making friends for the sake of having friends so that I do not feel lonely. I am more interested in making valuable connections with people who support me and help me grow as a person. And I have come to realize that I really do have all the friends that I want at this time of my life.

I have my sister, who has been my best friend since I was born. We've grown up together and supported each other through everything. She helped me through my first two years of high school, and I was lucky enough to have her as an RA in my building my freshman year of college. And now that she's working on her master's degree 2,911.2 miles away from me, we still talk every single day. She is my number one supporter and inspiration, and I am forever thankful to have her as a lifelong friend.

Then there's my cousin, who had to wait only 103 days for me to be born and become her friend. We grew up together and formed an inseparable bond. And although she already has her own twin, she and I look and act very similar, which is very confusing to pretty much everyone else. It feels weird if a day goes by without talking to each other and she's the first person I notify of every hardship or joy to come my way. 867.2 miles has nothing on us, kid.

I am also lucky enough to attend the same university and live in the same building as my best friend from elementary school. We've been through so much, from volleyball at recess to junior prom to college. No matter how much time we spend apart, our friendship continues to grow, and I will always be thankful for his endless support.

Of course, there's the best friend from high school. We met on the volleyball court, attended countless concerts together, basically lived together junior and senior year, and now, thankfully, we live in the same city. My family has claimed her as one of our own, and I couldn't be happier to have her in my life to encourage and inspire me.

And then, there's the friend that we all have: the random kid in high school that you never thought you'd become friends with, but you couldn't be more thankful for. We met in journalism my junior year and to my surprise, started talking on a regular basis. From nonsensical chatter to philosophical discussions, we constantly argue and disagree on basically everything. I really appreciate his honesty and unique perspectives; he's like an older brother to me.

I am also very lucky to have formed a very close friendship in college with my current roommate. We lived on the same floor freshman year, met at our major orientation, and instantly attached ourselves to one another. I will always be thankful for the emotional support, late-night karaoke sessions, and even the constant pranks.

And finally, my boyfriend, who I also met in high school journalism. I am thankful for his endless support, companionship, and all of the lessons I've learned from him.

I feel extremely blessed to have forged such deep bonds with a number of great people. Regardless of how long I've known them, I trust every one of them with any problems that I may face, and I know that I can always count on them to provide me with comfort and support. Each of these individuals helps me to grow in distinct ways and exposes me to various perspectives. I know that each of them values me as much as I do them, and I feel comfortable expressing my thoughts and emotions around them, even if they disagree with me. And even though I do not get the chance to see all of them on a regular basis, maintaining my friendships with them adds so much meaning to my life.

So I've given up on searching for a group to fit into. The support I receive from each of these individuals outweighs anything that I could hope to find. You all know who you are, so thank you.