As a college student, I tend to get so caught up in my own life and what I'm doing that I forget to focus on things besides myself. Between classes and homework, working, sorority events, and social life, we get kind of busy and selfish at this time in our lives. But you know who isn't selfish? Our parents. They have so much going on in their lives, but we are still their top priority—even though they might not always be ours—and I wouldn't be where I am and getting the opportunities I am without their love and support. This is a small gesture, but here are just a few of the million things that I need to thank my parents for, and that I'm sure a lot of other people need to thank theirs for too.

First of all, thank you for your endless support through my first year at college, and allowing me to move away to school and start pursuing my dreams. You let me make my own decision about where I wanted to go to school and stood behind me when I made my choice. Thank you for moving me to school and not only stocking up my mini-fridge every time you come to visit, but also buying me a bomb meal plan so I can eat at Panda Express and Subway on campus when I get tired of the cafeteria. Thank you for helping me pay for expenses and dues, and buying endless textbooks that we only use twice during the whole semester. I also so appreciate that you encouraged me to branch out and join a sorority, and to make the most of my college career—both academically and socially.

Thank you for understanding when sometimes, the only reason I call is to ask for or about something (sorry) and always giving me your undivided attention. Mom, thank you for dropping everything you're doing and listening when I randomly call while you're in the middle of something and for letting me babble on to you for an hour about literally nothing. And Dad, thank you for calling me every Sunday just to see how I'm doing and to fill me in on what's happening back home, and thank you for reminding me to call Noni and Grandpa, reminding me of how precious family is and to never take it for granted.

Thank you for random texts just to tell me you love me or to have a good day, because sometimes, I need that little dose of love. Dad, thank you for always sending me links to funny videos and memes to keep me laughing. And mom, thank you for sending me craft ideas on Pinterest, and getting the hint that when I send you recipes, it means that I want you to make those dishes for me when I come home for break. Thank you for treating me like royalty when I come home to visit and making sure we go to all my favorite coffee shops and restaurants that I've been missing while I'm at school.

Thank you for allowing me to grow up in a family that encouraged me to be anything I wanted and who I knew would always support me on whatever path I chose. I'm so blessed to have been raised by parents who are so rooted in their faith and who have such a positive outlook on life. You guys have set an example for the kind of person I want to become and the type of parent I hope to be one day. Thank you for trying not to say "I told you so" when I mess up, and letting me learn and grow from my mistakes. Thank you for understanding when you don't hear from me for a day, letting me start to live a life on my own, and cheering me on from afar. Thank you for endless support even when I take it for granted. You are the most incredible parents, and there are never enough thank yous for all you have done and continue to do for me. You are my role models, and the most loving and admirable people I know. There are so many things I could thank you for, but most of all, thank you guys for being you, and for your unconditional love and support.

Love you to the moon,

Forever your little girl.