To the friends I've met in college,

It has only been a few months, but you all play an incredibly important role in my life. My friends from high school understand who I was before I left for college and will continue to take me back to when times were (a little) simpler. But you all get me like no one else could right now. You understand the struggle of the broken showers that has hair all over the place and the way our rooms get cold even if the heat is turned all the way up. You were there the day I (we) moved into the dorm and reality hit us like the wind hitting our faces when we walk across the parking lot to the caf.

Every college experience is different, but yours will be the most similar to mine. Therefore, you are the first person I go to to complain about classes. And no one minds because you understand the struggle first-hand and don't tell me to "just deal with it". You are there at midnight to encourage me to eat yet another bag of popcorn because you know it will make me feel better. And you support me in everything I do and boost my confidence (even when I don't need it).

Thank you for making me laugh when all I can think about is how much I miss my family, friends, and dog from home. For showing me a good time and pushing me out of my comfort zone; God knows sometimes I need a little shoving. Thank you for ordering pizza with me at 11:30 on a Tuesday night and dissecting Netflix shows with me when I should be writing my paper that is due the next day at 9:30am.

You are the reason I am thriving in college--why the transition has been much easier than I could have ever imagined. Why when I do go home I am secretly missing college and the life I have come to love (dorm rooms and all). If it weren't for you I would have probably spent much of the first few weeks of college holed up in my room scared of new people and experiences. You pushed me to try new things and give everyone a chance and for that I will be forever grateful. Because of you I am following my dreams and know that I can do whatever I put my mind to.

You never judge me when I'd rather spend a Saturday night curled up in a blanket watching Criminal Minds than taking on the town (I'm sure that phrase will make you cringe...or laugh. Probably both). When I feel like my whole world is suddenly crashing down and I can't take it anymore you help pick up the pieces and put me back together. I'm also glad I can help you; it makes me feel like I'm actually making a difference even if all I'm doing is telling you that you can finish your Bio homework before midnight.

So, thank you. For being you and allowing me to be me. You are all amazing and I can't wait for the memories we are going to create.

Love,

Your college friend