Dear first semester, you are almost at a close. Two more weeks of classes and a week of finals and that's it.

First semester, you weren't an easy thing to tackle.

There were a lot of obstacles to overcome. From adjusting to college life, the work load of classes, avoiding the freshman plague like well the plague and making new friends. It was hard not to take L's but I made it.

I know you aren't completely finished and I still have to tackle a few more weeks, but I've learned a lot so far. Like going to bed at 4 am and going to class at 9 am the next morning is crazy but sometimes necessary. The effort you put into class is what you get back in your grades. Studying is more valuable than it ever was in high school and just because your professor says the lowest test will be dropped doesn't mean slack off.

I was blessed to make great friends and get to know campus before everyone else. It was nice to have people that could encourage you when your are stressed about school. People that will take a late night homework break to sit on the patio when the weather is nice. Friends that are going through the same moments of missing home, and having trouble adjusting sometimes. Plus weekend movie nights will always be a good way to relax after a long week.

Learning to balance everything and remember that school is important but not letting it be your whole entire life. To remember that you have friends who support you, and that sleep is important too. Sometimes it's okay to let yourself go to sleep instead of studying for a few more hours. Being dead tired on test day is just as hard as not studying enough.

My first semester as a freshmen in college has taught me a lot about keeping myself motivated and reminding myself why I'm in college to begin with in those moments where dropping out seems like the best choice.

The money spent, the stress, the late nights will all be worth it.

First semester, you didn't let me forget how important things like calling home and keeping in contact with them is great. Before college so many of us just want to get away from home. Then once we are away things like being sick in your XL twin bed hours away from home makes you wish your mom was there to take care of you.

Thank you first semester from giving me memories I won't forget and meeting people that I can see being my friends for years to come.

Even though these weeks are dwindling down and a much needed winter break is coming up, I'll always be grateful for the lessons I learned!

You were great first semester. I look forward to a nice long break at home and to come back to another semester. A semesters of new classes and a few steps closer to my goals