In my first year at college I learned something that I think I knew all along: I cannot live without an animal. I always knew I loved animals even when I was tiny. I even wanted to be a vet when I was younger. Even though dreams and plans have changed, my passion for animals has never wavered.

I found out just how vital they are to my mental health when I left for college and moved out for the first time. I went from having three dogs, three cats, and a handful of chickens to a single potted cactus to take care of. I felt very alone even with my three roommates. I just lacked that social bond that comes with owning and animal and being responsible for them. I fell into a sort of depression where I lacked the motivation to get out of bed. While I do not blame all of my issues on not having an animal, I know I would have had more of a reason to get up and get going because I would not be responsible for only myself. I put this to the test this summer when I adopted a rescue kitten.

Around March, my grandmother had a cat show up on her doorstep pregnant and when she had the kittens, she brought the kittens to my grandmother. I almost feel like it was fate because I had just found out I was unable to bring my dog as she had learned to open doors and it would be unsafe for her. My grandmother needed to find a home for the kittens, and I needed a companion to take back to college with me.

I met the kittens for the first time in May and it was like a match made in heaven. The kittens were all black and white, but one really stood out to me. She was a sweet female kitten with half a black face and half a white face. I knew she was the one for me. I decided to name her Sage which ended up being very fitting as her eyes turned a beautiful shade of green.

Bringing her into my apartment was a hassle. I had to jump through hoops to get her approved which is common for any pet owner, but it was annoying all the same. I also had to worry about her getting along with my roommate's cat. She was so tiny I was worried my roommate's cat would not like her and there would be an issue. Surprisingly, it went pretty well. After she was approved and I knew we would not have any issue, things went amazing.

I found myself much more willing to get up in the morning and she gave me a purpose. She goes with me everywhere now, whether that be college or back home. She has also made friends with one of my close friend's cats, so I know she has lots of socialization. She's currently still working on getting comfortable with dogs but she's making great progress. I think it will be a lot easier once she's full grown.

She is such a help to my mental health. She calms me and she comforts me when I am sad. It is almost unbelievable how intuitive she is. She always knows when something is wrong and finds a way to make me smile. She finds a way to do something to make me laugh or just cuddles up next to me.

All in all, she's one of the best decisions I have made and she really has changed my life for the better.