As back to school commercials are airing more frequently on the TV and the countdown to back to school gets closer for many, I can't help but feel a pang of mixed emotions knowing I won't be going back to school or buying school supplies or new things for my dorm room. Despite that, I am reminded that I owe a lot to my alma mater. Between the hours spent in class, studying and working on projects, I learned a lot more than any textbook has to offer. I learned how to be myself. College taught me more than I could ever imagine; it taught me about myself.

My time in college was incredible. I honestly cannot put into words how amazing college truly was. It gave me countless experiences. College allowed me to meet so many different people from all over the world. College also allowed me to meet myself. College showed me who I really am. It showed me that I can unapologetically be myself and there is nothing wrong with that. I learned how to stand up for myself and to do the things that I want to do. I learned to take risks and to try new things.

College was where I learned that at the end of the day, I only have to answer to myself and if I can't go to sleep proud of who I am, then I am the only one that holds the power to change that. I learned to be curious and to continuously explore what the world has to offer. I learned to use my voice and to share my thoughts and ideas. I learned that I am much more capable than I give myself credit.

During the four years I spent there, college carefully molded me and tested me. It transformed me into who I am, who I was meant to be. College gave me all of the tools I needed to become myself. College taught me a lot, but the most important thing it taught was to love myself and for that, I am forever indebted.