Dear Seniors,

Thank you. Thank you for taking the time to be a part of my first year of college and making me feel welcome at our school. You probably knew that I was a measly and uncertain freshman from just one glance, but whatever it was that compelled you to reach out to me and start up a simple conversation, I am forever grateful for it.

To the lovely seniors who I shared brief conversations with at the most random of times and places-- in line at the convenience store, waiting for the elevator, browsing at the bookstore-- I just want you to know that your quirky comments and unexpected friendliness brightened up my day and stayed with me. Even though we didn't know each other then and still don't know each other now, you made a great impression not only of yourself, but also of the school we go to. You contributed to the sense of community and openness that I'm appreciative our school has, and your willingness to step out of your comfort zone and be a part of someone else's day was something I really admired and hope to emulate. Now that being said, you all don't know me and that may have seemed pretty heavy for a simple "don't buy those, there's better selection at the Commons Shop" or "how was your day?" but just know that I really appreciate it.

To the amazing seniors who I had the pleasure of getting to know and befriend throughout the school year, whether it be through clubs or classes and everything in between, you guys have had a tremendous impact on me, and helped shape my freshman year into what it is. Thanks for taking me under your wing and showing me around the school and imparting your 4 years of wisdom onto me. Thank you for dedicating so much of your time to getting to know me better and making me feel like a part of something greater. You gave me so much guidance and perspective and really just helped create a sense of belonging, which is priceless in a new environment like college. You always watched out for me, whether it was keeping me accountable or telling me which classes to snag or avoid, and now just like that you guys are all heading out to the real world. As cheesy as it sounds, you guys are some incredible role models, and I honestly can only hope to be half as welcoming and knowledgeable and fantastic as you guys have been to me. I don't know what it's going to be like not being able to see your lovely faces on campus or not being able to spontaneously call you up for a lunch date, but I'm so excited to see what's in store for you all. Seeing you guys finishing up your last year and final hurrah as college students is bittersweet because it feels like a goodbye, but knowing it's the start of a thrilling new chapter in your life truly makes me happy and gives me motivation to just keep on keeping on to hopefully be in the same position as you 3 years from now.

I genuinely wish you all the best of luck out in the real world and cannot wait to see where you go from here! Let's keep in touch! Thank you for your guidance, kindness, and friendship.

Sincerely,

A Freshman