Dear Best Friend,

Over a year ago, I remember getting an email congratulating me on my acceptance to study at London Metropolitan University. I sent you a text and you called me immediately after with such strong excitement in your voice that to this day, I still think of it and smile. You were even more excited than I was!

This time last year, you surprised me with a book filled with things to do and places to go in London. You sat with me while we went through and highlighted all the places you recommended I go and all the sights I should see. I had no idea what the city would really be like, but knowing I had a personal list of things you would do made me feel more comfortable. I often referred to the book and having your recommendations with me always made me feel more connected to home on days I needed it most.

When I had moments of doubt, panic, and anxiety, you were always the first to calm my nerves. Whether I wasn't sure if I should definitely go or I wasn't confident I could handle being away for that long, you reminded me why I wanted to go in the first place. You helped me feel at ease and reassure me I was going to have the best experience possible. When I would stress about the financial aspect of things, you would always tell me, "life is too short to worry about things like that." You were always so encouraging and I could never thank you enough.

Today, I've been home from my adventure for a while, but it is the beginning of yours. You've heard all my stories about almost getting fined a thousand pounds or getting into a sketchy van at 3 am, and I am eagerly awaiting the day when I get to hear all the ridiculous things you do. I tell you all the time that you are the coolest person I know and I can't wait to cheer you on as you continue to do cool things.

Being in London definitely had a lasting impact on me (in case you couldn't tell from my LDN tattoo), so I truly hope you leave feeling the same way. I hope you take advantage of every opportunity you get and not overthink too much, because like you told me, "life is too short to worry about things like that." I hope you travel to places you've been longing to see and watch all the bands on your list live. You deserve nothing but the absolute best and I hope these next few months are everything you've dreamed and more.

So as you leave for this incredible experience, I can only sit here and hope you have the time of your life - because I know I did, and I have you to thank.