When I was on the ever-so-stressful college search my senior year, I had no clue where I would end up. I figured if I wasn't happy by the end of my first semester or two, I'd just transfer and leave it all behind. As my second year comes to an end and I look back, choosing my school was the best decision I have made thus far. I'm sure a lot of it sounds cliche, but there's a reason behind that and why I love it so much. And when people ask me, "So how is school going? Do you still love it there?" I probably go on and on a bit too much. For those of you who've asked me why I never ended up transferring or what is it about this place, this may help.

1. The Support

Not only academically, but personally as well. When people face hard times, we all grieve. We gather together and help those who are in need in any way we can. From donations to sympathy flowers, and of course the power of prayer, you never feel completely alone here, no matter what you're going through.

2. The Forever Friendships

I find myself wondering how I ever made it in life without the people I've grown to close to. It's safe to say that I've met my bridesmaids and the ones who I can go to for anything and everything, including my best guy friends I couldn't live without, either. I've met my people, and just going home feels incomplete somehow without them. It's safe to say leaving them behind is out of the question.

3. The Faculty and Staff

Earlier this week, I passed a professor I had over year ago, and he greeted me happily and somehow remembered my name. Once again I was given the reassurance that I just couldn't leave this place. And I can't forget the always cheerful ladies in the dining hall who never fail to make me laugh even when I wanted to cry during finals week. Or the Starbucks baristas who know me by name, too. No shame.

4. The Location

I'm not too far where I can't drive to see my parents for the weekend, but I am just far enough where I feel like I have truly began my independence and life as an adult.

5. The Sunsets

This one may be odd to some, but there's just something about them that creates beauty in this small town I've grown to love. It's the simple things about it here. You can't help but stop and admire that God-painted sky, listening to your student section cheer as you watch your football team claim another victory.

6. The Involvement

It's pretty rare that there isn't something interesting going on almost seven days a week. Whether its a Greek life organization, celebrity speaker, charity event, concert, or themed party you've been anticipating, there's always something to do. In addition to that, it's so easy to join an organization or even start one of your own. You'd be amazed how many people share the same passions as you.

7. The Campus

No matter what time of day, I always see a familiar face on campus. But there's hundreds of new faces each day, too. I can get from one end of campus to the other in no time, which comes in handy when I spent too much time at Chick-fil-A in between classes. Not to mention the scenery and simplicity of the campus itself.

8. It's Home

Shortly after moving in my freshman year, I quickly found myself calling my dorm room and this small town home. My definition of home was always the place I grew up, but my school made me realize that home can be anywhere as long as you're happy and making memories along the way with the people you love most.

For these reasons and so many more, I refuse to leave this place behind like I once feared I would. I want to take the time to thank all of the wonderful individuals who have made my campus home as well as the thousands of students who I am fortunate enough to share my college experience with. No matter your college, mascot (Go Eagles), or traditions your school may have, it should feel like home. So leave behind the rumors or anything you have heard, and go discover it for yourself. The semesters will continue to fly by, and before I know it, graduation day will be here. I'm not sure what the future holds, but I'm sure of one thing: I'll wish to do it all over again.