It’s just about here. Only a few days left until we walk across that stage, move our tassel, get handed our empty diploma, and leave this place for good. Looking back, I have spent countless times complaining about this place. I scream at you for making me wake up at 8 in the morning, I have cheated you by skipping classes, but then blaming you for my failures due to my comfy bed. It is time I learn to appreciate you and leave you with a goodbye gift. No, it is not $20.17 for a cord, but a thank you (and this one is free).
Thank you for introducing me to the friends I never thought I would make.
Before moving into college four years ago, I was terrified. For the first time, I would be separated from all my friends from home. What will I do without them? Will we drift and will I be left without any friends at both school and home? All of these scenarios running through my head. But you proved me wrong, college. You showed me that your roommates would become your closest friends. And if you were one of those who happened to get placed with the worst roommate(s) ever, then you made friends with hall mates and bonded over the terrible roommates you were assigned. But of course, this doesn’t happen for everyone. So…
Thank you for the clubs/organizations provided through the school.
I knew I wanted to be a part of something; anything. I wanted to do something that would allow me to grow as a person, make new friends, and hopefully put on a resume. In my case, joining a sorority was that thing. Being a member of something is a great feeling. You get to be involved which is great on so many levels. You also get to meet so many new people with similar interests. Freshman year I had two friends. When sophomore year came around, I had 50+ friends. I am a firm believer in quality over quantity, but it just so happens that this organization provided me with high quality friends in addition to a number.
But most importantly, thank you for making me a better person.
This is a big one. High school me hated school. I did whatever I could to get out of going and I was truly miserable. I had some really great times but like most high school students, I was dreading college if it would be anything like high school. But there you go again, proving me wrong. My first year in college was a bit rocky. I still missed some classes and I didn’t make a lot of friends so I spent a lot of nights crying, begging my mom to let me come home. As each semester went on, I grew accustomed to this place. I made more friends, I joined more clubs, I pushed myself to do the best I could, and here I am. I truly believe that I am a better well-rounded person because of it. Even though there were struggles, I don’t regret a thing. It’s those obstacles that help you learn and grow. It’s staying up all night crying over an exam that causes you to learn and do things differently the next time one comes around. I have gained so many skills I never had before and I have gained an open mind to so many more things. I will forever be grateful for college, for you have changed me for the better. You have given me friends that will always have a place in my heart. You have taught me skills that will help me in my future endeavors. But lastly, you have left me with memories I will cherish for eternity.
