Dear Hillary,

Thank you.

Thank you, first of all, for what you stand for. You represent the dreams of every person trying to break down barriers which keep them from achieving their dreams. I am a young woman studying in the unforgiving field of political science, a field in which women like you and I are too often underrepresented and marginalized. You know what it’s like more than anyone to be discriminated against because of your gender. This work hasn’t been easy for you, and I know it won’t be easy for me. But you are an incredible role model for me to look up to. Your strength and dignity transcend this election, and have given me the courage to pursue a career in this field I have grown to love.

Thank you for your experience and your service to this country throughout the years. You truly have given your heart and soul to the people of this country, and have received, in these last months, very little recognition for the good you’ve done. I recognize that your record isn’t perfect, but then again, whose is? The good you’ve done for women, for LGBTQ individuals, for children and families, and for foreign relations is truly amazing.

Thank you for your bravery during this election season. Not only have you dealt with an opponent entirely unfit for his candidacy, but you have also refused to let the sexism of this election get under your skin. I have witnessed so much hatred toward you in the last year, for basically no reason at all other than your gender. I think that there is no reason why a woman shouldn’t be president. A president isn’t defined by gender roles, but by strength of character and ability to lead. You are an example of both.

Thank you for never giving up. In everything I’ve seen or read about you, one thing is always made clear. You are persistent. You don’t quit, and you don’t cave in. In my opinion, there is no better woman to look up to as a role model than you. For a young woman like me to see you become the first woman in the history of the United States to make it this far to the presidency in spite of all the forces working against you is truly inspirational. If I can even be half the woman you are, I will consider myself the success.

And finally, thank you for making millions more cracks in the highest and thickest glass ceiling. I hope you can shatter it.