Dear Best Friend,

Where do I even start? I can try to avoid all the clichés and say “I’m so proud of you” and “Don’t forget about me” but how can I not? There is so much to say and almost no time to say it, with the semester’s end quickly approaching and everyone’s busy schedule. So here’s what I’m going to say.

I had moments when I dreamed of sitting next to you during our big day. We would have our overly decorated graduation caps and either laugh at the inside jokes were making during the ceremony or wipe away subtle tears because it’s all about to end. I secretly hoped that you would stay an extra semester, an extra year. Because I know I have other friends who are great and supportive, but it’s you that has impacted me the most.

I thought I’d have my high school friends stay forever. That I would graduate college with them like I did in high school. When my high school friends faded (which is normal, it just happens) and I didn’t imagine having friends like that here, I met you. I met others that became friends with you who became friends with me. I found my place, and it all started with you. You made my college experience something I’ve never dreamed about.

I got to watch you do so much with your life in four short years. We got into arguments and knew that we would be okay because I can’t imagine our friendship ending just like that. You took me on adventures that I didn’t even knew I needed to go on. I got to watch you show me the things you enjoy and try to get me to like, even if I didn’t like it. I got to watch you grow from the really awkward person to only a semi-awkward person.

The late nights were something I would never forget (If I could even remember some of it). Staying at the library until five in the morning while drinking a mixture of Red Bull and coffee and only doing half of the homework meant more than all of that. We got to know each other through late nights and frustrations, even if we didn’t seem to like it. We watched each other grow within our studies, even with our maturity at two in the morning decreasing.

I watched you be in relationships that you vented about, asked me my opinion on gifts or what to say about whatever. I watched you get hurt and experienced surprises and you let me be part of that. I watched you have fun with other people and although sometimes I may have had a touch of a jealous streak, I was happy for you that you were happy, and that all that mattered.

And now, I watch you from the audience, a little sad that my dreams were just that, a little sad that I don’t get to experience this magical moment with you by your side. But you are accomplishing something that not a lot of people get to accomplish, and it’s my best friend doing it. So no, I’m not graduating with you, the late night library sessions wont be the same, and you wont be at least five miles away from me at all times, but watching you chase your dreams is all worth it. I’m glad I get to call you my best friend. I’m so proud of you. Kill ‘em in the real world.