About four years ago, I was attending orientation at the college I was convinced was going to be my home for the next four years. After all of the orientation festivities had taken place, we were sent off to a dorm room for the remainder of the night. As I got ready for bed, it occurred to me that this school was definitely NOT where I wanted to call home the following semester. I immediately texted my mom and although she wasn't too thrilled seeing as we had already paid the dorm deposit, she went along with my decision.

The next day I applied to the college in my hometown and was accepted a week later. It was no U of I but it would suffice. However, a year later I found myself taking the first of many pictures in front of Alma as I prepared to start my sophomore year at the University of Illinois.

Look, it's my first picture with Alma!

When I tell you going to this school is the best decision I have ever made, I am not exaggerating. I have made countless friends, countless memories, lost countless dollars, and gained countless pounds. After changing my major four times (can you tell I am horrible at making decisions?) I finally found something I love. And while school is definitely my number one priority, there have been many occasions where I have stayed up until 4:30 a.m. hanging out with friends instead of studying for an exam that was the next day.

Sorry, mom and dad, it happens.

The friends you surround yourself with can make or break your college experience and luckily I have been blessed with so many wonderful people that make each day better than the last. As National Decision day approaches (May 1), take some time to think about what is most important to you when it comes to your future home. It's YOU that will be spending 9/12 months living there. Not your mom, not your dad, and not your siblings. Good luck and maybe I'll see you on campus next semester!