I said goodbye to the institution I had entrusted my education with for the past three years on Saturday, May 6, 2017. After finding my place at Bluefield College, little did I know the impact I would make and the change I would see. In the turbulent times today, I have been told to listen to understand rather than listen to respond, to be empathetic and it will open my mind and give me wisdom. If it weren’t for my background being raised in Bluefield and the nurture and care I received, I would not be who I am today.

I have been blessed with an array of perspectives that allow me to understand viewpoints vastly different than my own. I have learned not to judge because only God knows the storm that He has asked His creation to weather and also because of the treatment and judgment that I receive, as a Muslim, wherever I go. The obstacles and hindrances have shown me the strength that lies within me and has allowed me to find those who are loyal to me.

I felt a need to write a thank you to not only Bluefield College, but to Bluefield as well. No words could do my beautiful hometown nestled in the hills of Appalachia justice but I wish to convey my gratitude for it giving me the opportunities to express myself and aiding my growth. Although it is a small town, I do not regret my time here because of the lifelong relationships and memories I have made. I didn’t always have what I wanted like a TJ Maxx or nice movie theaters, but I had what I needed. So, dear Bluefield, thanks for the memories.

As this epic chapter closes and the next one begins, I will hold you, the memories, and everyone I have met, close to my heart. Goodbyes are never easy, but the pain is lessened because I know this is only temporary. I will return and I will see my friends that turned into family and professors that turned into mentors again. To my family and everyone who believed in me, pushed me, told me not to be afraid, and to continue on with the good work, I thank you. No matter where I go, I will remember my roots and always be a true and proud West Virginian.

1. Already knowing the ins-and-outs of the town

Staying in Bluefield was awesome because I didn’t have to adjust to new surroundings which can be overwhelming because starting college is a big change on its own. Most importantly, I knew the best restaurants and could give recommendations to my classmates.

2. Always running into someone I know

Whether it is someone from my college or my first-grade teacher, I am bound to see someone I know- especially at the great Walmart. This can be a pro if I like that person, but a definite con if I’m in a hurry, avoiding someone, or making a quick run in some old pants and a tattered t-shirt. It can get demanding to have to look presentable but over time, you just end up not caring.

3. There are no secrets.

This actually ended up being a good thing for me. It helped keep me in check and for that I am grateful. I knew if I would get in trouble, I would have people to help me out. However, I have seen countless false rumors spread like wildfire so that is a downfall for any small, gossipy town and/or campus.

4. Not having to deal with a messy roommate

I had paid my deposit and was ready to go to Virginia Tech, located about an hour away. At the last second, I changed my mind and I am so glad I did. Everyone in high school said they couldn't wait to get out of our small town, but I never found it that awful. I am also very close to my family and I don't think my parents were ready to let go of me so soon, and perhaps I wasn’t ready to leave them either.

Of course, it was also wonderful not having to share a bathroom, deal with loud neighbors, or messy and dirty roommates. One of my best friend’s roommates even stole from her so I’m glad I didn’t have to experience that! Also, it was just cheaper to live at home.

5. People genuinely care about your well-being

Bluefield College boasted a whole 539 traditional students last semester- about the same size as Graham High School from which I graduated. Professors knew me by name and even knew my family. Gatherings at their houses, and even at the President's home, were not uncommon. I could tell the professors genuinely cared about our education and success. The best part- they usually offered extra credit, except for our young biology professor who was a tough cookie to convince, but in the end, even she made us better writers and students.

Not only did I have caring professors, advisors, mentors, religious leaders, and family friends, but I had countless people of all backgrounds become family. We went out of the way for each other to give a helping hand and we didn’t think twice about it nor see it as doing a favor because that’s what family does.

6. Surprising Diversity

Bluefield is relatively diverse compared to our surrounding areas, mostly due to immigrants, many of whom are physicians. However, I was surprised at the amount of diversity at Bluefield College. A huge reason why I had wanted to attend a bigger campus, was exposure to new cultures. Who would have known I would have access to students from 33 different countries including Canada, Ireland, South Africa, Brazil, Honduras, Australia, UK, Germany, Austria, and China. Thus, I was able to learn a lot and even had the chance to share about my Pakistani heritage and Islam in return. It really helped broaden our point of views, which is much needed in a small town with less awareness. My friends at the University of Virginia have told me on numerous occasions that I have a better experience in that regard because I get to talk to internationals because we see each other daily, whereas at bigger colleges people of a certain ethnicity stay within their own groups.

7. Liberal arts college= active participation

Bluefield College is a liberal arts college. This meant more hands-on education and having to give countless speeches, preparing and teaching lessons, and debating to enhance our critical thinking skills. Bluefield College, as a Baptist school, also heavily emphasized servant leadership. This is a valuable tenant in Islam and Christianity, and a quality everyone should have. I truly embraced this concept by involving myself with Bluefield’s Rotary, a part of the world’s largest non-profit volunteer organization and helped found Bluefield's Rotaract, the college version, dedicated to ‘service above self.’ I have become increasingly grateful for the opportunities and blessings I have and know it is my duty to give back to my brothers and sisters both locally and globally.

8. Getting to catch up with high school friends when they came to town

It has been great staying in touch with my high school friends. I was blessed with an amazing group of loyal, hard-working, and caring people. There’s a statistic that I read that said only 5% of high schoolers remain friends after graduation. Thus, appropriately, our group chat of 10 is named ‘The 5%.’

Also, it’s fun to brag on Snapchat to the rest of the group when I get to see one of them in Bluefield while they’re off at their colleges.

9. Family was always there to rely on and vice versa

First of all, it was great not having to cook all the time and still be assured I would not go hungry or have to eat a pop tart for dinner. Second, it was awesome never having to miss the little things that are actually important like birthdays, a first car drive, or soccer games. Also, very importantly, I was there to take care of my grandmother who became ill and moved in with us from Pakistan my freshman year. I was there when my family needed me and I am glad I could help out, despite the sacrifices I had to make. Lastly, my family was there to comfort and support me- especially my brother whom I even had classes with at Bluefield College. I am thankful for the extra time I have had with my family.