To those of you who graduate high school with the mentality that a guy will hold you back, I think you're wrong. I have been judged, made fun of, and even criticized for being in a relationship in college. For me, it isn't the worst thing in the world. It doesn't prevent me from "having fun." To me, college isn't all about "playing the field." College is supposed to be the best years of your life, right? Enjoying those years with one of the people I enjoy the most and will spend the rest of my life with is even better. Having a boyfriend in college has only made it better and here are some reasons why.

1. He's the best stress reliever.

When I say he knows me better than I know myself, I'm not kidding. It takes one text or one phone call for him to notice if I'm stressed out. If I even seem a little over-stressed, he's the first to suggest we go out and spend some time away from the books. He's the best medicine for my over-thinking head. He knows exactly what I need, and I can't thank him enough for that.

2. He's a great study buddy.

Considering we're studying completely opposite things, it's fun to help each other study. Whether we're quizzing each other or helping with a paper, he's always here to help me succeed as am I for him. I always have someone to be proud of me when I do well on an exam, or hold me if I'm upset that I didn't do how I wanted.

3. He's the best workout partner.

He's my free personal trainer. There are view better things I love more than going on a run or to the gym with my boyfriend. Spending time with him while he does something he loves, and watching how happy he is that I enjoy it, too, is more than a win-win situation.

4. He's one of my favorite people to hang out with.

I'm my best when I'm with him. Whenever we're around each other, there's nothing but constant laughter. He makes me happier than I ever thought possible. Whether it's studying, working out, or watching Netflix, being around him is one of my favorite things.

5. He's my best friend and my person.

Don't get me wrong, my roommates are my girls and I have a few close friends back home. I can turn to them no matter what, but my boyfriend is different. He knows what to do when I'm having a bad day. He knows my comfort food and that sometimes, I really need a Diet Coke. He laughs at my jokes when they aren't funny, and laughs at me because I need it. I can talk to him about anything and everything. He's seen me at my lowest and my highest, but loves me unconditionally.

6. He keeps my self-confidence in check.

I am blessed to have someone who never underestimates me or lets me sell myself short. He continuously builds me up, supports me, and makes me feel like I'm the most intelligent, beautiful girl that he's ever known. He keeps me going most days.

7. He's one of my biggest sources of motivation.

College is no walk in the park. When I'm overwhelmed, feel like I won't pass a class despite how hard I study, he's here to motivate me. He's here to keep me focused on my dream. He knows what I'm capable of, and pushes me to be the best I can be. He's a constant reminder that one day, my hard work will pay off. When I see him succeed, it inspires me to keep working hard too.

8. I always have a date for any occasion.

I never have to worry about showing up somewhere alone. Showing up to a friend's house, dinner, or a family function alone isn't a thing, because I always have a plus one. If he's busy, I'm asked tons of times where he is and why he isn't there. Everyone in my life loves him almost as much as I do, and there's no better feeling than that.

9. He doesn't care what I look like.

I don't mean this how it originally appears. I don't have to dress up for him to find me beautiful. He prefers no make up and sweats versus curly hair and a fancy dress. It's one of the things I love about him, as well as having him around in college. I don't have to dress up to try to impress anyone.

10. It has taught me life-lessons.

I've had to learn how to balance having a life (sort of), studying, and a boyfriend. Sometimes, I really want to hear his voice, but I know I need to study for an upcoming exam. Sometimes, we have to fit seeing each other or talking to each other in our schedules. It has taught me so much more than just commitment, and love.

11. If he's a bird, I'm a bird.

It isn't just a cheesy quote from the notebook. It's wanting to be with the love of your life no matter what that entails. People always say that you don't have an "other half," because one: you shouldn't need to depend on someone and two: you should be your whole self. I have to disagree. He's the half that makes me whole. Trust me, I'm my own person and so is he. But without him, I wouldn't be who I am now. I know it's cheesy, but home is wherever I'm with you. He's more than just a person, he's my favorite place besides with my family.

To the wonderful man all of the above is about:

With you, everything is clear and I feel safe. I feel like I can conquer the world with you by my side. With you, I know I'm loved, appreciated, and valued. You have instilled a confidence and happiness in me that I never thought possible. I have no insecurities or self-esteem issues with you. Every chance you get, you tell me how beautiful you think I am.

Thank you for everything you've done and will continue to do for me. You've made college more than I ever thought possible. I'm so glad I get to experience and figure out life with you. I love you.