Dear Graduate,

You walked across that staged and shook the President's hand and I can only imagine what your heart was feeling when you received that diploma. Meanwhile, I was still studying abroad with the overcast skies and laundry that demanded to be done, but I knew that you would have beautiful blue skies on your awesome day.

I just want to take a moment to publicly thank you. You have been such an incredible friend, with a beautiful heart, an infectious laugh, and so much knowledge. You were always up for conversations spanning from history to science to politics to comedy. You showed me new worldviews and supported me through heartbreak. You baked cookies during finals week with me, and would swing by my room for a surprise visit just to say hello.

Being your friend has been such an adventure and I am greatly conflicted seeing you graduate. For one thing, I won't be able to run to your room at night when all my classes and responsibilities and doubts have me freaking out next year. I won't be able to go to Amelie's with you for late-night study breaks that actually turn into late-night vent sessions. I won't see you in meetings with Res. Life or just between classes when our paths cross, but I'm trying to be okay with that.

You are going to do so many great things. You're going to learn so much more and impact so many other people. I am so thankful for the years I had with you. I'm so thankful that college introduced me to you. I'm grateful for the guidance you've given me through my past three years, and I know you'll continue to give me hope and support no matter where you go.

Next year, when I move back on campus, a part of me will feel empty. I'll set the boxes down in my room with the AC blowing on high and furniture thrown about, begging me to rearrange it. While unpacking, I'll find my box of letters and see the ones you've written me and I know it'll take me too long to compose myself. A week into the semester I'll think of you and how, if you were still studying here, you would be outside in the student quad, talking with international students or old residents. But because technology is a beautiful thing, I'll take out my iPhone and FaceTime you. You'll ask how I am and I'll be honest and say how much I miss you. And it's going to be hard, but it's going to be worth it because a friendship with you can withstand any distance.

Congratulations on graduating. You make me so proud, but then again, you always have.

Love,

Your Underclassman Friend