When I chose to go six hours away from home for college, I was ready to start over. I wanted a new beginning with all new faces and no one from my past. In high school, I had very few friends and the majority of my friends were on my cheer team and did not even go to school with me. Some even lived up to an hour away from me.

I knew there had to be a new and different life out there for me. So, I chose my dream school Kentucky six hours from my hometown in Illinois. I dreamed of college being this place where I finally got that strong group of girls, I craved for. I figured it would be so easy to find it. Little did I know I was wrong.

All my life I have always been a little shy and self-guarded, but I knew in college I needed to be more outgoing and open minded. However, I am also one who takes friendships very seriously I do not just let anyone in. College was a dream and has been a dream, but I still, every day, did not understand why I was someone who always had the smallest group of friends. It took to me to where I am now in life to realize that I cherish the quality of friends I have over the number of friends I have.

The people I have in my life may be few, but they are the most amazing people and they have helped me get to places I never imagined.

I advise you to choose quality over quantity when it comes to friendships. These friendships will be the ones who last past high school and past college graduation. Choosing the people who choose you back is more rewarding. Choosing the people who push you to be more than just average. I can wish and hope for a big group of girlfriends all I want but in reality, I got my girl group in the end. Although the numbers may be small, they are the ones who teach me to be a better version of myself every day. They are the ones who get me out of my comfort zone. For them, I will always be forever grateful. Cherish the life you are given. Instead of waiting around hoping and wishing for aspects of your life. Look around see what you have and hold those ones close. They will be the ones who get you farther in life.