Going to college introduced me to a bunch of unique and friendly people that I have come to call my closest friends. For the past two years that I have been attending college out of state, my friend group has been a huge part of my everyday life. They became my family away from family. We all lean on each other and offer our support. Whether you just bombed a huge test or a family tragedy hits home while you're away, college friends are always there when you need them.

I find myself asking where these people were my whole life and why they weren't there with me in high school. My friends in college have helped me get through some of the most stressful nights and gone with me on so many adventures that I will remember forever.

Leaving all of these people behind for the summer is such a strange feeling. Every time you say bye to them at the end of the year, for some reason, it feels like the last time ever. Three and a half months is a pretty long time to be away from your friends that you see every day and create a routine with. I think that the worst part is when you find out in summer that they aren't coming back the following school year. This has happened to me four times already and it seriously is the worst feeling ever. I think it's because you tell them goodbye, knowing when you were going to see them again. But when they don't come back, it sucks not knowing when you will reunite.

College friends are so much different than high school friends. You all grow up together and discover what you really want to do with your lives. Sometimes, you might even get to include them in your future plans. I think it is amazing how God has His hand through it all and gives us these beautiful people to share this important times in our lives with.

I mean sure, school may be pretty tough at times and working 20+ hours a week is not so fun either, but boy, I think about how much I miss my college campus and my friends a lot during the summer. Attending a Christian university was one of the best decisions I ever made. I was able to surround myself with such positive and loving people who give me such amazing friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

To all of my college friends, I wish you all lived closer to me and summer is so weird without you! Time away during summer break really makes me appreciate you and all of the times we have together. Thank you for being there through all of the blood, sweat, and tears. Thank you for giving me such amazing memories and for the late night drive-thru runs and movie nights. I will never forget any of the times that we shared together. I thank God for putting each and every one of you in my life.