The past year and a half away from home have taught me that I couldn't be more blessed.

I do not know too many extended families that have a group chat via iMessage where they share big life events, funny stories, and loving encouragement. I never realized how amazing of a family I had until I came to college, I just thought everyone had a group of overbearing, loud people who came together at holidays. I am learning to be grateful for those people because I am realizing not everyone has strong relationships with their extended family or really ever talk to them.

Since fifth grade I’ve been in school with my cousins. My aunt Lynn would always take us to and from middle school until high school when I was old enough to drive myself. My mom was my high school Spanish teacher and my aunt Courtney once even subbed in for my gym teacher. Instead of playing kickball like we were supposed to she lead us in a yoga class, needless to say, I immediately became the kid with the cool aunt.

We, like all families, have our struggles and don't always get along but I have never encountered a group of people so willing to go to the ends of the Earth for each other. I had always wanted to leave Iowa and run far, far away. My cousin Claire would always tell me that I should be proud to be from Iowa and that someday I would miss it. We'll I'm not quite to missing it yet, but I have gained a new sense of pride in my Midwestern roots. I am the daughter, granddaughter, niece, and cousin of extremely hard working and honest people. I was raised to work hard and help when I can, that I can be proud of.

I feel confident knowing that whatever path I chose to walk in life my family will be there supporting me, in the good times and bad. They have offered me a strong support system that has given me the confidence to pursue my seemingly crazy dreams, for this I love my big and crazy family.