They say that with new friends come new adventure, new ideas, and new energies. In this case, that couldn't be truer. Through four of the most amazing people I know: Kerry, Caroline, Olivia, and Megan-- I have learned the meaning of friendship in more ways than one. Each of these girls deserves to be recognized for the light they bring to not only my life, but the lives of everyone that has the pleasure of knowing them.

Kerry.

Kerry is the kindest soul you could ever know. She has taught me that a night in is just as great as a night out. In a way, she is much more mature than any 16 year old I know. She makes any sort of boring situation come to life with her positivity and high spirits. Through our many attempts, and fails, at choosing what movies to watch together, we’ve learned that the two of us have an insane amount in common. I’ve never known someone that would listen to Brad Paisley and One Direction with me in the same sitting. One of the greatest thing about being friends with Kerry is the security. She does not waver. She does not fade. She tells you exactly how she's feeling and makes sure that you're just as comfortable. An amazing dancer with a warm heart, Kerry has taught me that being kind is a choice with no consequences.

Caroline.

Caroline is someone that intimidated me at the start. Her level of enthusiasm and terrific sense of humor gives off an energy that everyone is attracted to. Her carefree spirit paired with her warm heart is a combination that can take the darkest of times and manage to shed a sense of light. There is no one I know that is an open book like Caroline. She tells stories and says things about herself that make you feel like you're her friend from the get-go. My favorite thing about Caroline is her humor. She pairs her sarcasm and wit together to create a form of comedy that can me laugh until I am in tears. She has taught me to laugh a little harder, smile a little bigger, and love a lot more. I’m so thankful for the positive energy that she has brought to my life and I’m proud to share my name with such an incredible person.

Olivia.

Olivia Greco is the craziest, most spontaneous, caring person I have ever been so lucky to call a friend. I think of her as my ride or die. Quoted as saying “One for the memories," more times than I can count... Olivia would do anything for an adventure. The best thing about Greco is that she loves with everything she has. She gives all she can and doesn't ask for much in return. Olivia cares so much about everyone she knows, that she cries at the thought of her friends being upset. I was put into a pretty compromising situation recently that had no correlation to her at all and when it was over I found out that Olivia was sobbing in worry the entire time. She puts her heart into everything she does and wants so desperately to make sure the people she loves are settled and satisfied before she even takes care of herself. I aspire to be as selfless and loving as Olivia. She has taught me that you can be carefree and still care deeply. She has made me feel like we’ve been best friends for years in the span of 3 months... And that is a remarkable thing.

Megan.

Megan is wise. She knows pretty much everything about everything when it comes to life. A go-to for advice and a great choice for a night out, Megan’s friendship is one earned, not given. When she opens up to you or tells you something you know she wouldn't tell just anyone, you feel a sense of pride. With her friendship comes a feeling of privilege. Megan is someone that you know you can trust after a short amount of time. Her laugh is contagious and her humor easy to love. Megan balances being funny and serious with absolute grace. She has taught me to believe that everything happens for a reason and that flaws are nothing compared to confidence. One word that comes to mind when thinking of Megan is "substantial." She knows what she wants and what is best for her. She makes decisions based on her own mindset, rather than relying on the opinion of anyone else. Megan has taught me that the approval of others is nothing once you learn to accept yourself.

Though the start of our friendship is semi-recent, these girls have become a major part of my life. I’ve never met four people with such amazingly different personalities that mesh together quite as magnificently. I am so unbelievably thankful for all that they have brought to my life and can only hope that everyone finds friends as wonderful as them.