Growing up, I never cared much about architecture or what houses looked like on the inside or outside. I was pretty indifferent to features and thought that the most important thing in a house was the size and fancy features (usually technological ones) it offered. If you’d asked me the difference between quartz and marble, I probably would’ve responded with something like, “One is the name of an ice cream place” ... or something equally ridiculous.

That all changed when I started watching HGTV, however. Home and Garden Television opened my eyes to a whole new world of countertops, flooring, crown molding, shiplap and more. I started watching "House Hunters," where I got to see houses across the country, and my favorite -- "House Hunters International" -- where I got to explore the world through various home and apartment choices. "House Hunters International" showed me a lot of cultural differences between countries in terms of housing, which helped prepare me in a way for my study abroad program I participated in.

I watched “Property Brothers” where I saw that even the ugliest avocado bathrooms could, in fact, be transformed into a beautiful, modern showpiece. I saw just how much keeping an open mind can be beneficial in the long run. By forcing families to open their minds to a renovation house, the "Property Brothers" are able to make their dreams come true.

“Flip or Flop” made me want to flip houses myself. As old houses with roaches, clutter, trash and structural issues were turned into dream homes, I saw how much fun there is to be had in the real estate market. The process would certainly be grueling, but imagine what a blast it would be to have full creative control over house after house after house?

Last but not least, “Fixer Upper” brought me a greater appreciation of family and home. Chip and Joanna Gaines express their love for their family and community in every element of their work. Joanna’s love of repurposing inspires me to take a second look at pieces I would normally look over. She has an amazing ability to put life into a room with simple, classic touches (such as shiplap).

While some may see HGTV as only a network, I see it as a friend. One who teaches me and inspires me to travel, keep an open mind, be willing to put in the work and finally, who inspires me to appreciate my home and community. So thanks HGTV, thanks for being my constant friend.