To quote one of my favorite philosophers, Hannah Montana, “they say that good things take time, but really great things happen in a blink of an eye.”

Growing up in a small town (shoutout to my small town) my options for making friends were quite limited. Going from a place where I knew the same people since kindergarden to living in Downtown Portland was so much more than a change, it was a different world. My life of driving back roads was exchanged for learning the routes of the streetcar and MAX, and the only familiar faces I saw were the pictures of loved ones I had hung up on my bulletin board.

Viking Week was actually the most awkward but enjoyable part of my freshman year; I think at some point in the week that’s where the girl from Bismarck wasn’t just my roommate, but she also became my friend. We bonded over the fact that the bar across the street (that allows minors before 7:30pm) had chicken wings on their menu, how Ben & Jerry’s was only two blocks away, and writing humorous notes to our neighbor.

Before I knew it, we had a routine, inside jokes, and plans together. I learned the importance of Tori’s time in the tub, when she had classes and when to wake her up if her alarms didn’t, and how lucky I was to have her in my life.

So when you befriend the girl from Bismarck, you become friends with one of the brightest and passionate people you’ll ever meet. Please ask her about her goals and you’ll learn about her selfless and inspiring plans. Her dedication to her religion and beliefs are inspiring and the relationship she has with her friends back in North Dakota and family are actual goals. If at any point in life you feel lost, confused or broken, Tori will offer advice, ears that listen, but most importantly a friend that never leaves you at that state. She will make you her muse, and even though you were never comfortable in front of the lense of a camera, you will learn to let loose and smile. You will eat icecream, cookie dough and laugh like it’s the new diet trend.

When I became friends with the girl from Bismarck, I welcomed a part of me that I always kept to myself. I found myself telling her things I never thought I would ever say out loud, and I had a person to have insightful conversations about relationships, life, and politics. I may not have known her for long time, but I’m glad our paths crossed.

Don’t get confused, she is so much more than someone from Bismarck, or the girl in room 424. Tori is strong, smart, and “One In A Million.” You will find your own definition for Tori, and I guarantee you it will be a positive one.

I don’t know where our lives will be five years from now, but part of me knows that my friendship with Tori will be like one of your favorite songs. No matter how long it’s been, you still find yourself singing the lyrics without missing a beat.

Thank you for pushing me to grow and to follow my dreams.