Well, ladies, we did it! We are officially sophomores in college, ready embark on a whole new journey. Before we part ways, I just wanted to share my appreciation for the friends that made my freshman year in college the best year yet.

At the end of my high school experience, I had a few let downs from friends, drama, and everything in between. Needless to say, I wasn’t the happiest I have ever been in my life but learned to make lemonade from some bad lemons. This was not possible without meeting each and every one of you guys, who made me laugh, stayed loyal, and genuinely wanted me to succeed. You guys reminded me what genuine friendship was like, without all of the complicated drama, which truly made for some good lemonade.

From the tears to the laughs to the tears that turned into laughs, you guys were there for it all. From move-in day, the moment my parents left and the tears welled up, you guys were there for me and stayed with me every day since. This past year presented a lot of challenges for me and you guys were there for me through all of them. For that, I will always be grateful. When I had the flus (Yes, unfortunately, plural), you guys made me as comfortable as possible without being home with my mom. We were there for each other, even before we really knew each other.

From stressing over papers due, lab practicals, to speeches, we did it all. I will never forget the late nights in the side lounges or the early morning trek to South Campus first semester. No matter the situation, the amount of homework, you guys always managed to make it enjoyable. Coming home to the seventh floor, I could not walk to my room without seeing at least one of your smiling faces.

I learned so much from each and every one of you. From radiating positivity, to incredible courage and faith, and to confidently being yourselves, you guys have pushed me into being the best version of myself. I am in awe of all of your stories, how you overcame the bad and hard parts of life and are still the kindest and happiest people I have ever met. All of you presented an interesting life story and the ways you conquer your battles amazes me. I am so lucky our paths have crossed because my life is forever changed.

We grew so close over our time on our beloved seventh floor, that now being home does not seem the same without all of you. The next three months will certainly be interesting without hearing all of your life updates every single day. Once again, I will learn to make lemonade from some lemons. Now, I have so many cities, states, and even beaches to visit all summer long. I cannot wait for all of these memories, because wherever I am, as long as you guys are there, it is a fun time.

“College friends are forever friends.”

It is so strange to think that one year ago I did not know any of you, but today we joke around about being in each other’s weddings. This past year of learning all about each others’ past while also growing into new people has been quite an enjoyable experience. Together, we grew into somewhat mature adults.

I cannot wait to grow with all you amazing people throughout the rest of our college journeys and even into adulthood. If the quote that we are each other’s forever friends is true, I am one lucky gal.