There are a lot of things I could thank you for, but as I get ready to enter into a new phase of my life, I want to thank you for your undying support the last few years.

Dear Mom,

As I get ready to graduate with my Bachelor's degree from a University 160 miles from home, I am reflecting on the things and people who have affected my years here in undergrad. You are my greatest role model, my biggest influence, and the person who has forever supported me and loved me, no matter what.

You have dealt with more stressful phone calls and cries for help than any mother should ever have to endure in a short amount of time, but you never complained.

Instead, your heart ached when you couldn't help me. It didn't matter what time it was or what the subject matter was, from car trouble to heartaches and work problems, you always offered advice and undying support.

As I figure out the next chapter of my life, you continue to support me, even as I talk about moving to another state to pursue my dreams.

Although my goals and dreams may seem unattainable, you never fail to make me believe that I can somehow make them come true. I am in awe of how much you love me and how much you hope for my success.

Even though I have ignored your numerous "life lessons" and eventually learned them on my own (the hard way), you continue to give me the best advice- even though I don't deserve it.

I have made so many wonderful friends throughout my time at college from my involvement on campus, my classes, and through mutual friends. I love them all more than I could ever say and I couldn't imagine my life without them, or without my time here at my university.

However, nothing will ever change the fact that you'll always be my best friend and I am immensely blessed to have you as my mother.

Thank you for supporting me in everything I do. You stand behind the decisions I make and you encourage me to push myself out of my comfort zone. Thank you for trusting me. You always take me at my word and believe in me, no matter what.

Thank you for being my constant when everything around me changed. I know that things are about to completely change, yet again, except what will remain is our love, bond, and relationship.

Thank you for never giving up on me... for allowing me to pursue my dreams in a foreign city. I could never thank you enough for everything you have done for me the last three years.

This last year will be the most challenging, rewarding, and exciting year of my undergraduate time, and I know that you will greatly contribute to this experience.

Forever your baby girl,

Laura