I know I've talked about one of my roommates before and listed why she's my best friend. However, I wanted to talk about another roommate of mine and our experience together. When I was assigned my roommates, I was obviously worried about if they would like me. I worried if we would get along and become friends. I never imagined having a roommate who would teach me so much just by being herself.

When I met Olivia, she was very open about her mental illness. Olivia was diagnosed with Type 2 Bipolar Disorder. She wanted to warn us about her bipolar disorder when we all first moved in freshman year. I thought this would negatively effect me, but really it has made me a better person.

One thing that Olivia has taught me is that you can't give up. No matter how difficult the battle is, you just gotta push through. As cliché as it sounds, she often reminds me that there's a light at the end of the tunnel. She's a very strong willed young woman that has been through more than anyone should ever go through. Honestly, she should be a role model to people who suffer from any mental illness when they need strength or comfort.

When it comes to self care, Olivia is there to remind me that my mental health comes before everything else. I could be having a depressing day and she'll remind me that I still have to live my life. The other day the only reason I could even push myself to go to class is because Olivia sat there while I sobbed my eyes out and told me I was going to feel worse if I didn't. Sometimes I forget that I need to put myself first, but she helps me get back in line.

The greatest knowledge she's given me is everything about bipolar disorder. Olivia has educated me on a mental illness I wasn't fully aware of. I had heard of it, but knew I didn't have it so I didn't put in the effort to research it. She hasn't shown me what movies or a textbook would. She has shown me what it's like to actually live with it and have to cope with what it throws at you.

I have had the pleasure of living with Olivia again this year and she continues to teach me new things about myself as well as ways to look at the world. Olivia, you are really great to me. I don't know if I could handle some days without you. You are not only my roommate, but one of my greatest assets in my recovery. I know we don't get very mushy or feeling, but I love yah. You're a life saver. Please continue to keep strong through everything life throws at you. (Also please don't kill me for the photo I went with. It's like one of our only ones)