A letter of gratitude to my freshman year of college: I would like to begin with a thank you for the absolute, hands-down, best year of my life. Thank you for turning my life into a complete roller coaster ride that never fails to surprise me. The thrill and excitement of new experiences and being out on my own, and the slightly terrifying moments that all come along with figuring everything out for myself. Thank you for bringing me to the greatest group of people I have ever had the privilege of knowing, who later became like family. Thank you for helping me create a home away from home, where I feel comfortable and inspired by those around me.
Thank you for letting me make mistakes but also reminding me that it isn't a mistake if I learn from it. Thank you for maturing me and shaping me into a woman I can be proud of. For teaching me responsibility and the importance of being a good friend. For showing me that it is not always so much about what you do in life, as it is who you do it with.
Thank you for showing me the power of knowledge. Thank you for helping me see the importance of having a career and doing what you love. Even if it did take four changes to my major and five trips to advising. Thank you for teaching me that hard work will pay off, but in the event that I do fail, it is not the end of the world. Failing at something does not mean I am not good enough. What is important is how I react to the failure.
Thank you for knocking me flat on my ass more times than I can count but surrounding me with the people who give me the strength to get back up every time. Thank you for showing me that the real world is harsh and people aren't always nice, but that I can make a difference by choosing kindness. You helped me see what a long way a small act of compassion can go.
Thank you for making me passionate and reminding me to find beauty in the smallest things. For showing me that sometimes miracles do happen, and it is so important to invest time in and fight for the things you believe in. Thank you for teaching me to be thankful, always, and never take anything for granted. To never regret doing anything that led me to the point in my life that I am at today.
Thank you for teaching me to be happy and confident in who I am. One of the most powerful lessons that I have learned is that you cannot expect others to love you if you don't love yourself. For teaching me that it is okay to step outside of your comfort zone and make decisions that people may not always agree with to better yourself.
Thank you for teaching me some of the toughest lessons but also showing me some of the greatest parts of life. Thank you for friends and memories that really will last me a lifetime and for changing me for the better. I now know that I am stronger than I thought and I do have what it takes to be successful … starting with the next three years.
