Dear Freshman Roommate,

As the end of our first year of college is just a week away, I want to reflect on this journey we have made it through together.

First off, I will remember you forever. Whether we keep in touch or not (I hope we do), the impact you have had on my life is a lasting one. I mean, you only get one freshman roommate; I'm glad it was you. Just the fact that you were there at the beginning is huge. On account of all the roommate horror stories I heard this year, I'm glad I'm able to say you were one of the good ones. I really lucked out in finding not only a roommate, but a new best friend.

In the time I've lived with you, I've learned a lot. You have shown me that two people can have differing opinions and not agree on a single thing, but can still find common ground, understanding in different points of view, and be the best of friends despite the differences. I've learned the ins and outs of Catholicism, that there are different ways to do laundry, and that jeans can be different colors.

It's also been an experience learning how to live in such close proximity to another person. We've learned each other's quirks and know things about each other no person should need to find out. I feel like I know you better than I know my family members, which isn't bad. You've been a good placeholder for them while I can't be at home.

Not only have we learned everything about each other's living habits, but we've made so many memories that I will cherish forever. From all of our silly rants in between classes and 2 AM talks about anything and everything, but mainly nothing, to the fun times and not so fun times. We've been through disagreements, boy stuff, and big decisions, but also through the lazy Saturdays, errands, day trips, and exciting news. I will take each of these memories to heart and either cherish them forever or remember the lessons they helped me learn.

As the youths say these days, we've had our ups and downs (you should know I don't like this phrase on account of how overused and stupid it is), and I really value the downs as much as the ups. Living with you has been a learning experience as well as my greatest adventure yet. We may be going separate ways next year: me upstairs, you to another dorm, but that doesn't change the fact that I genuinely enjoyed our year in 150.

Roomie, it's been a pleasure, and I'm thankful to be able to say I'd love to live with you again sometime, but I'm excited to see what each of us has in store in the future: in roommates, as well as life in general.

Sincerely, your forever friend.