I remember the first day I met you. It was preview day at school, and we were in the same group. I am a graphic design major, but was placed with a bunch of music and theater majors. I won’t lie, I felt a little out of sorts. But everyone was so sweet, and even though I was one of the quieter ones there, I truly enjoyed the conversations that took place. It was interesting to hear all of you talk about your experiences in theater and music, although I did not have much to chime in. When my dad and I went to leave that day, I waved goodbye to you, and you were so friendly as you told me to have an amazing summer. I thought to myself, "Wow, if people at Susquehanna are like her, then I’ll have a great four years." Little did I know, we'd be rooming together not two months later.

We began talking through Facebook, and eventually got each others numbers. We bonded over our love for music and dogs. We texted over the summer constantly, planning out our room decor and just getting to know each other. Thinking back to move-in day, I was not even nervous. I was so happy that you were my roommate that I knew it would all be okay. When I arrived, you were already moved in since you got there so much earlier. You helped my dad and I unpack and organize my side of the room. We were together for all of the orientation activities, and we made our first friends. I am so thrilled that I got to go through it all with you by my side.

Throughout the school year, the two of us had our ups and downs, but mostly ups. We bonded with the boys in our hall, laughed until we cried at all of their antics, and had so many long talks. Some nights, when our work load was low, we would lock our door and turn on a good movie, make popcorn, and just have a movie night with the two of us. It was so great having someone around that I could be completely myself with. And it was such a blessing to have someone who I could talk to about anything going on in my life. You are still one of the most pleasant and caring people I have ever met. Plus, you understand me and the way that I am, and I am so appreciative for a friend like you.

Of course, times were not always the greatest. There were some hard times for both of us during our freshman year, and we were not all smiles. We cried with one another, and then we waited for the sun to come out again. It always did. But for those dark times, I am grateful to have had you there with me.

We did not do everything together, and I think that is the way it should’ve been. We both got involved, and busy with other activities. What was important was that we so clearly were always there for each other at the end of the day. Not just because we lived together, and there aren't many ways to get around that, but because we share a special bond that no one can replace. We experienced a huge transition together, and there isn’t anybody that I would have rather have lived with my freshman year of college than you.

Due to certain circumstances within your sorority, we will not be living together next year. That doesn’t mean we won’t still be close. And I will cherish the memories we made during freshman year, because Katherine, you helped make my first year of college the amazing event that it was. I truly do not think that I would have had quite the unforgettable year without you in it. So, thank you for everything. Not just for being the perfect roommate, but the best friend anyone could ask for.

Love, Maura