It's no secret that majoring in nursing is hard work. Not only do we need to succeed in classes involving human anatomy and physiology, chemistry, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and microbiology, but we also need to learn countless nursing interventions and skills. Plus, we are encouraged to do it all in 2-4 years. With all that in mind, support systems and role models during nursing school are crucial. Even though I'm only a sophomore, I already have so many thanks to give to my fellow nursing majors for being those those things for me.

Thank you to the nursing students who have also doubled as my best friends. We've somehow gone from simply sitting by each other in lectures to rejoicing and commiserating together over the ups and downs of nursing school. Also, thanks for listening to me talk about my gross bodily functions (you know you're going to have to get used to that in the near future!).

Thank you to the nursing students who have experienced so much more than I have. You've been through clinical rotations at hospitals, you've inserted IVs and foley catheters on real patients instead of mannequins, and much more. I look up to you even if I'm not acquainted with you. Because of you, I know that it is possible to make it through even the most daunting of milestones as a nursing student.

Thank you to the nursing students whose high exam grades and skills exposition scores get passed along through the grapevine. I may cringe with envy at first, but I'm always inspired to work harder next time. Whatever you're doing to succeed, I can find the motivation to do as well.

Thank you to the nursing students who share their stories about becoming inspired by other nurses. Whether you've been influenced by nurses while going through cancer treatment or just a brief hospital stay, it's so wonderful that you want to be a nurse because you had amazing nurses. You remind me why I want to be a nurse, and I hope I can be that inspirational one day, too.

Thank you to the nursing students who are just as excited and nervous about starting their careers as I am. Whether you're a senior or a freshman, it's probably something that crosses your mind frequently. Where will you work? What will your hours be like? Will you feel fulfilled by your work? I always try to reassure myself that I'll discover my preferences as I learn more about each type of nursing and each age group.

Thank you to all nursing students for dedicating endless time and effort to a common goal: to become the best caretakers, patient advocates, and support systems you can be.