As a junior in college, I can't help but look back at the progress I have made here, at West Chester University, and think of all the memories I have created for myself, and the self-growth I have experienced.

As a student, I've found a major and minor to be completely passionate about, and am chasing my dreams to one day end up working in NYC. Graduation is still somewhat far away, but it's quickly approaching as each day passes and each semester ends- I have no idea what I am going to do without this quaint, yet crazy little town. I am more than involved on campus, and have joined organizations bigger than myself that I am incredibly proud to be a part of, and hold positions that I never saw myself pursuing. As a Jersey girl living her life out in Pennsylvania, I made a life for myself here, and I am loving every second of it while it's mine.

As an individual, I have dealt with many hardships recently; I have loved, lost, and been through hell and back trying to keep up with pushing others before myself that needed to be lifted up by my words. I have helped others through the toughest parts of their lives, danced when good music was playing, and basically worked my ass off to accomplish the goals I set for myself. Though I have faced my struggles as well, I learned a great deal about self-love, and how much effort and energy certain situations, and people, are worth putting into.

Oh, but as far as friendships go, have I been blessed the greatest gifts of them all. The people I have met throughout my time here are extraordinary- the friendship every girl NEEDS. My world is filled with friends who reach out to me when I am struggling, support me when I am succeeding, and love me when I am not loving myself. The girls, who I am thankful enough to call my best friends, that came into my life at completely unexpected times in my life.

Whether it was living together in the dorms freshman year and being friends ever since, meeting through communication courses or a sorority, the girls I became friends with teach me every day how to be a better version of myself. They are loving, kind, supportive, and everything a friend should be. I truly don't know how I got so lucky-I appreciate them more than they will ever know.

The best part of the people I've met here are the memories we've shared with one another. Whether it's running through the streets of West Chester in the pouring rain, Wednesday's nights at the bar right around the corner, "Tea Tuesdays" drinking and spilling more tea than ever, obsessing over Jersey Shore together or drinking more coffee in one sitting while watching our favorite reality T.V show, I couldn't imagine anyone else by my side. Thank you for being the person who lights up my life, and continues to be my support system when I feel completely alone.

A best friend of mine once told me, "friendship is not about how long you have known someone, but how much they prove to you they are your friend with their support and love", and this stuck to me. Although I may have met some of these girls only 2-3 years ago, it feels like a lifetime. I'm not quite sure how I lasted 18 years without these people to be completely honest, I must have been insane back then to think I would never find friendships in college such as these.

Thank you for being my support systems, my rock, and for coming into my life when I least expected it.

You all know who you are.

XO, Rosie