Dear Freshman Year,

You've truly been something else, I must say. You were simultaneously everything I was expecting and nothing like I was expecting, but I think at the end of the day that's what makes it so special.

It's almost bittersweet to say goodbye to you because I feel like you just started yesterday. I feel like It was just a week ago that I was moving stuff into my dorm room, filling it with life and color and my own identity but here you are so many months later stripped of my identity so that the next student can make it their own. I feel like I just started taking classes, unsure of my major and unsure of what classes I was going to enjoy. I feel like I'm still the kid I was in August, nervous and scared for the future.

I still am nervous and scared for the future, there's no denying that. I have no idea what I'm going to do with the rest of my life, I have no idea if I'll change my major for the third time, or maybe even a fourth or fifth time. I'm not sure at all, but that's okay.

You've taught me that it's okay not to know things. It's okay to sometimes have no idea what's going on.

You've taught me that as long as I give all of my efforts, the outcome doesn't matter. Maybe I didn't do too hot on that test, but if I worked really hard if I studied, reached out for help and tried my best, then it's okay.

You've taught me that grades aren't everything. The 4.0 GPA from high school really doesn't matter anymore because college is on a whole other level of difficulty. Not getting a 4.0 doesn't mean that you're not smart, that you're not intelligent or determined.

You've taught me that you don't have to go out and party to have fun. You can sit inside on your futon with your roommate and play Mario Kart on a Friday night and have just as much fun as you would going out.

Freshman Year, you've taught me that I'm able to adjust. I'm able to overcome things that I never thought I could. I'm able to go out and meet new people, create new experiences, and create a new life. I'm able to become a person I never thought I'd be and that's super cool.

You've also given me so many memories. You've given me a roommate who I love with my whole entire heart. You've given me the ability to grow and I'm so thankful for you.

Thank you for everything, the ups, and the downs, the twists, and the turns. I know that even when the times were tough you were really helping me in the long run and I'm so thankful I got to have an amazing year with you.

Even if I didn't do everything I wanted to do this year, you're still one for the books and I hope that Sophomore year is just as kind as you were.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Your Freshman who officially survived final exams.