I remember right before starting college, my parents told me, "These next few years are going to be the best years of your life."

So far, it has proven to be true. I've experienced so many wonderful things my first year of college from Greek life, to new friends, to sleeping past 6 a.m. every day, but the best thing I have gained from becoming a college student, is the trust my parents suddenly had in me to be able to get a dog of my very own.

So many wonderful things have come from getting my sweet fur baby last November, and throughout the process, I have become a strong advocate for all college students everywhere to get a dog, because it literally makes your life 100 percent better. So, if you have been trying to convince mom and dad for quite some time about getting your very own little bundle of pure joy (aka a puppy) here are the reasons why you deserve a pup:

1. They help you make new friends

"Oh, you thought these people were actually interested in you as a person? Nah, they're just here to rub my belly and put me on their Snapchat story."

2. When your roommate/parents cook really gross food, they will always be happy to eat your "leftovers."

Well, hopefully always, depending on how bad the meal is.

3. They encourage you to create healthy habits.

"Walk? Did you say walk? Did someone want to go on a walk?!"

4. They don't care if you failed that last biology exam.

"Lets be real, all of the super complicated parts of a cell aren't super important- but snuggles? Snuggles are 100 percent at the top of the priority list."

5. They are literally always down to party, even when your friends don't feel like going out.

"I'm all for turning up to some Beyonce and dancing around the room. I'll even chase my own tail if it will entertain you that much."

6. They teach you how to be responsible.

"You and I will both have a problem if you don't go grocery shopping today and get us some food. And you need to FaceTime your mom today; I like barking at her face on your phone."

7. They aren't judging you for how you dress every day.

"PJs? Yoga outfit? Post workout sweat? Gimme it all, as long as it comes with a treat."

8. Naps. They love naps. They are always down to nap.

"Like I said before, snuggles are 100 percent at the top of the priority list."

9. They can protect you.

Unless its against the vacuum cleaner, then you are definitely on your own.

10. They are great listeners.

Any time you need someone to tell a secret to, it is totally safe with them.

11. God spelled backwards is "doG."

Need I say more?