To the town, I refer to as my hometown I owe you gratitude and thanks for your influences in my life. I will never forget the town that helped me in more ways than one.

You taught me to see people and the world in shades of gray. To see corruption in daily aspects of life, to question the morals of those I made friends with, to be aware of my surroundings, and so much more.

You taught me that good food doesn't come from chains but taco trucks where tacos are 25 cents per taco. Or that great Chinese food is not limited to just Panda express but that little Chinese place by Horace Mann Elementary. And that if I want great maple doughnut stick thingys to go to Jesse's. You taught me to go to the sketchy hole in the wall places for amazing food.

Special thanks to my younger cousins who showed me that there are more to sports outside of just soccer and track. Taking me to your basketball and football events gave me a newfound appreciation. Also learned that I still don't understand how Garces didn't give you a full ride favorite cousin because you're a track star. Bako, you taught me rivalries run deeper than bone when it comes to high school sports.

Lastly, you taught me to be kind in a world that is so harsh and ignorant. Teaching me that not everyone will be understanding and friendly so I must take harsh words with a grain of salt. You taught me to be friends with everyone no matter their ethnicity, religion, or anything about them. I learned from you values that make me who I am and hopefully a future supreme court justice. You taught me that when the going gets tough to be tougher and stand strong in what I believe in. Bakersfield you taught me to me gracious, understanding, and brave. I thank you and the citizens who reside in Bakersfield since 1997 to future residents who will come to love the town as I have.