Dear Mom and Dad,

It doesn’t seem all that long ago that I was a confused high school senior trying to make big decisions about that rest of my life, does it? I remember that day like it was yesterday. You know what I’m talking about- The day you dropped me off at college! Dad gave me a hug before you left, and Mom cried as the car was pulling away. Little did you know that four years later, I would be back home and you would cry again because your empty nest wouldn’t be quite so empty or quiet anymore… And little did I know that my mom and dad would one day become my roommates.

Joking aside, this Bachelor Degree could not and would not have been possible without you, and for that I say thank you. I can’t even begin to find the words to describe how incredibly grateful and appreciative I am, so a simple “thank you” will have to (hopefully) suffice for now!

You have given me everything that I have needed to get to exactly where I am today. Whether it was sending me a care package when I lived in the dorms to help get me through midterms or quick text to let me know that you were proud of me, your generosity never went unnoticed. Thanks for not complaining too much when I brought four loads of laundry home during winter break because I didn’t have enough quarters to get me through the semester, and for reluctantly answering middle-of-the-night phone calls because I felt like my life was falling apart piece by piece. And I am even thankful for all of those times (and there were many) where you gave or told me things that I didn’t think I needed or wanted to hear, like saying, “Yeah, college is hard, but no one likes a complainer.” Through the good and then bad, I really couldn’t have done these past four years without you.

As I walk across that stage next week, I want you to know that this was a group effort. Although coffee, wine, and the occasional wild night out helped me maintain my sanity, it was you who always reminded me that I am more successful than I think I am. Even when I thought that I wasn’t good enough, you did. Mom and Dad, I know you know, but I wouldn’t be me if it wasn’t for either of you! Your constant love, support, guidance, and the occasional Starbucks giftcard is what has gotten through the last four years. Sure, I learned a lot new information in my classes, and my long nights in the library (kind of) paid off, but what college has really taught me is that you can’t go through this life alone. And lucky for me, I have you!

Congratulations parents, on raising a college graduate! I know you are proud of me, but maybe one day I can repay you for all the things you’ve done for me by buying you that condo in Hawaii that you are always talking about, but then again, you have another kid to help with that.

Thank you for supporting me and helping me achieve my dreams! I love you!

Love,

Your soon-to-be college graduate.