Dear Mom and Dad,

As I finish up my last few weeks of my freshman year, I just want to thank you for everything you have done for me. You both have been there for me since day one and I can’t stress how much I appreciate it. From me changing my major before even leaving, to adding a minor after my first semester, you both have supported the decisions I make. So this letter goes out to you!

I know it was hard letting me go, even though I may only be three hours away. It was hard for me, too. I spent days wishing I was by your side comforted by your presence. I longed for the nights where you would call and we could talk for hours. I missed and still miss you terribly! Being here this year has changed me; it has made me realize how much you all actually do for me. I knew you were amazing, but I really didn’t understand the hard work put in until now. You cleaned, you cooked, and you spent tons of money, and all for me, all because of me. Going away to college, I had to do that all on my own. Wow, that’s a lot of work! You also had to do that while working a nine to five job on top of everything! Thank you for putting your blood, sweat, and tears into raising me.

I also want you to know that I am taking full advantage of my college experience. All of the money you have put down to further my education is being very well spent. I study hard in all of my classes and try my best to get the best grade possible on everything; and although I may not be the best as getting my assignments done early, please know I actually am trying! Yeah, procrastination is still a problem, but I’m working on it. I have been participating in many different free activities on campus as well, so those activity fees are getting put to good use, too. These clubs have also helped me make numerous friends and help me gain a broader viewpoint on life. These people here are like a second family to me, and I would never have been able to find them without your love and support! You both convinced me to reach out and try new things, to “spread my wings and fly.” I will forever be grateful for that!

I know that these next few weeks are going to be long and stressful, and don’t be surprised if I decide to just call or text out of the blue to just say hi. College is hard, but I wouldn’t trade my college years for anything! And even though they may be difficult, they are also fun, amazing, and unforgettable. I’m living every moment here like it’s my last, because soon enough it will be. I have three more years ahead of me, and this is just the start of my wonderful adventure. I know that you all won’t be there holding my hand every step of the way; it’s up to me now. I’m deciding my future and I wouldn’t have been able to do that without the two of you and what you have done for me every day of my life! From blatantly telling me that I need to do something better, to just sitting back and letting me do it myself, you have always been there in just a blink of an eye to help. I know that no matter what I can count on you to be there for me when I’m down, as well as be there to tell everyone you know how proud you are of me and what I am accomplishing here. So from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Love,

Your Darling College Student