College is one of the most exciting parts of our lives. But it can become extremely bittersweet when we are leaving behind members of our family that truly mean the most to us: our pets.

While it may seem stupid, our pets love us unconditionally through any means. So, going five hours away from home means I'm going to be five hours away from my two little babies. Pets become this addition to your life that once you have, it's hard to live without. Since the moment they are brought into your home, an inner bond is created between man and animal that might've never existed before. From learning the meaning of each action that they do to caring for them when they are scared, sick or just lonely.

Max, my first dog of my own. I've had you since I was a little boy and through everything me and you have gone through, we've gotten through it together. From day one of having you, you have brightened up my life with your goofy little face. While there were days where I wanted to scream when you would pee on my bed as a puppy, there were those days where we comforted each other through those storms that we both hate. I would always look forward to coming home from a long day of school to have you jump on me and give me all your attention. Even on my worst days, you became my rock. You've become my best friend and I would never trade you for the world. To my little man who has always been my number one, I will miss you this year.

Penny, the dog of my dreams. I had always wanted a dachshund and when I got that opportunity, I was so thrilled. So, when it came down to picking you or your brother, as soon as I laid eyes on you my decision was made. While Max became my best friend, you took the position of my little girl. From when you were a puppy, you have always loved to sleep and sleep and SLEEP, so cuddles were amazing with you. Even though you have driven me crazy these past 4 years with your obscene barking at everyone who passes the house, college is going to be so quiet without you. Especially when we introduced you to Max, you guys became inseparable since then. To my little girl who has always been a pain in my side, even when I'm sleeping, I'll miss you this year.

For any college student, leaving behind their family can be the hardest thing. But nine out of ten times, those people will still be there when you get home. Your pets don't get to be in your life as much as you want. So, you must make every second count. To leave them behind to pursue my passions will be the most bittersweet thing about college. Not leaving home. Not starting over. Not taking harder classes. No, it will be leaving behind my furry best friends.

Thank you, Max and Penny, for the years we have had together. This isn't a goodbye but rather a "see you soon". It just becomes a countdown to hearing more barking.