I met my roommate, Missy, when I came to Florida State my freshman year. Who knew my best friend was only living twenty minutes from my hometown? Our bond came pretty fast. We had similar mindsets, attitudes, and yet balanced each other out perfectly. Her shy exterior was quickly eliminated by my outgoing persona. I could definitely tell I was a lot for her to handle at first. But, the friendship continued to grow and seems to never stop.

Three years later, Missy is my roommate but so much more than that. Missy has been my partner in crime since I stepped foot onto this campus. The memories I have made with her are simply unmatched and irreplaceable. She is the one I go to to laugh, cry, and tell every stupid detail of my day too. I am not the easiest person to deal with (BY ANY MEANS) and she handles me like a champ. She calls me out when I am being rude or unreasonable, holds me when I am breaking down, and keeps me accountable for all of my actions. And I would like to say I do the same for her. We have both grasped onto the other tight when we need it. Even when we do not sometimes, I mean everyone loves a good cuddle with their bestie! We are "like two peas in a pod".

Something I do not do enough is tell her how much I appreciate her. But I do, more than almost anyone in my life. Missy has seen me at my absolute best and absolute worst. The endless amount of support and memories she has given me has made my college experience. I do not know how I could even be at Florida State without her...that's my wifey!! I have met and made a lot of friends over the years, but this is one I will not be letting go of. This is a friendship people strive for and I could not be more grateful to have it in my life. So my advice to anyone is this, keep your circle small (the smaller, the better) and hold onto those who make you better. Those who allow you to own who you are (the good and the bad) and loves you for every aspect of what makes you that. Having that kind of friendship in my life has saved me from my biggest insecurities and I can safely say I would not be the person I am today if I had not met Missy Varela.