Graduation is very quickly approaching, Saturday to be exact, and my undergraduate career is coming to a close. This is a very odd transition and time in my life, but I am very thankful for all the friends family I have made during my time at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

To be honest, UTM wasn't exactly my first choice. However, looking back I am very happy with the choice I made. It impacted me in more ways than I could have ever imagined.

The professors, though some were jerks, most were wonderful. The family of professors in my major make me excited about going out into the "real world." They have helped to cultivate my passions, and ultimately grow into who I am as a person. They pushed me, they cared about what was going on in my life, and they were always there when I needed advice.

I'm thankful to all the friends I have made along this journey. Each and every one has been there for me in a different time in which I truly needed what their friendship had to offer. Yes, sadly people do grow apart but I have made some friends here that I know will still be strong in years to come. These friendships I will forever treasure, because they helped shape me into the person I am today.

My parents deserve an award for pushing me this far and supporting me through all the times I'd changed my major, or had a mental breakdown. (Believe me, they heard it all.) They may not have always agreed with my life choices, but they were always wanting what was best for me, what would make me happy.

Thank you, UT-Martin for everything. Go Skyhawks!