It seems as though we were wrong when we always talked about how, even if we'd be apart at our respective universities during the school year, we would at least reunite for the summer. I remember the last nights of our time together; we were completely inseparable—we laughed, cried (I was responsible for a lot of the crying) and eagerly anticipated the start of our freshman year of college. Some of us, like me, went what seemed like a little too far from home, but we still remained anchored to each other.
I still cannot believe freshman year is over and somehow we managed to survive it without being together. This year was an absolute whirlwind. Our late night phone calls and Snapchat messages failed to come close to our time spent together in person.
We all looked forward to reuniting this summer, but then came the internship and job offers in our respective cities, or the need to stay at school to correct the mistakes we made freshman year (maybe we had a little too much fun). Each of us made decisions that, in turn, caused us to remain apart once again.
I know that we are all making the best choices by doing our own things, but I can't help the overwhelming feelings of nostalgia that come along with knowing this is our first summer without each other. No more deep, late-night conversations around a fire, day parties by the pool or beach days in the Sunshine State. I won't get to meet all the friends you've made this year, your new significant others or even that special someone you looked at from afar, but were too nervous to actually talk to.
This summer, although I may not be by your sides, I encourage you all to take care of a few things for me:
- Never miss a Taco Tuesday at Tijuana Flats.
- Take chances and push yourselves out of your comfort zones.
- Get the jobs you've always wanted.
- Work hard, play hard.
- Spend as many days as you can at the beach or by the pool.
As I prepare for my first summer in the big city, working at the internship I've always wanted, I know that I couldn't have made it this far without you all. Thank you for pushing me out of my comfort zone, encouraging me to follow my dreams and picking up the pieces when everything seemed like it was falling apart. When I doubted myself and felt like it was time to come home, you all assured me I was doing the right thing. I couldn't be happier with what I have accomplished as a result. You are all my inspirations and biggest fans.
I'm choosing to say "see you later," because even though we might not be sure when the next time we will all reunite is, the time will come, and it will be as if no time has passed at all. For that, I am forever grateful.
