First of all, thank you. Thank you for seeing a lost freshman and reaching out to befriend me. Thank you for helping me not just academically, but socially, mentally, and physically. I can definitely say it will hurt to see you go, but you are going to do amazing things in life.

Your determination in your studies definitely helped me drag myself out of bed and crack open a textbook quite a few times. Your worship in chapel taught me to worship God with everything I have. Spending weekends working in inner city missions taught me to open up to new people and different ways of life. I have learned so much from you! I have learned to serve with a heart leaping after God. I have learned that grades are important, but one class or one test gone bad does not define my character. I have learned to have fun and make memories. I have learned that all the time invested in these four years is shorter than we would like it to be. I have learned gratitude and inspiration and admiration.

Thank you for being there. No matter what was going on in your life, you always had time for your friends. Time for a quick listen, time for short advice, time to just give a hug. You were always the one person I know would drop everything to listen to a problem whether it be chemistry, roommate issues, or just needing a friend. Thank you for having a huge heart and great empathy.

As I write this no words will ever be enough to say thank you, so here are a few memories...

I remember sarcasm in our friendship was very prevalent, right from the beginning. I remember apologies because you thought you had hurt my feelings with your competitiveness. Of course you hadn't. After all, I think I learned to be even more competitive by being friends with you. By the way, don't ever lose that (competitiveness), it will, and has, gotten you so far in life. I remember admiring you for your determination and wondering how you ever could handle so much on your plate. You did it though; you handle everything with so much grace and ease. Even when you were stressed or annoyed, it never showed. I remember opening up to a group of girls I had barely known (and you) about my testimony. The vulnerability I offer up now would have never happened without that trip. Nor would I have the friends I do without experiences that involve you. I remember your humility in times where everyone admired you. You can be very bad at accepting a compliment, but so great at handing them out. Learn to take one; you have earned it! I remember that these last two years of my college career have so many memories involving you and I cherish the friends and memories I've made.

I cannot imagine what life on campus will be like without you laughing at my stupid jokes or how it will be without rolling my eyes at you for God knows what. I cannot imagine weekend trips without you, beating me at ERS, or passing you on the sidewalk with that mischievous grin you have. I cannot imagine what it will be like to not have you here to give me hugs in stressful moments. I cannot imagine the kind of person I will be without you offering your input on my (sometimes very bad) attitude or encouraging me to push through. I have no idea who I am going to throw my sarcastic comments or joking insults at because no one will ever be just as sarcastic or (humorously) insulting back to me.

Although I know our friendship is (definitely!) not over, it will be different. You'll be super busy with grad school and I will be that undergrad still trying to reach graduation day. Basically what I'm trying to say is thanks for being a servant of God and impacting my life in so many positive ways. I can never thank you enough for being a positive role model and great friend. I cannot even put into words how much not only I, but our entire friend group, will miss you. You have done great things and I have no doubt that you will continue to strive and succeed. You truly are making this world a better place.

Good luck on everything you do and try not to forget that newbie freshman who needed your help to get an A in Zoology. I know I won't forget you. You have become one of my best friends, and for that I am extremely grateful. Thank you.

Congratulations, Graduate!