As I write this, I'm sitting on my condo's balcony on the beach for my Freshman spring break. It's really starting to hit me that I only have a short time left in my Freshman year. I cannot believe how quickly this year has passed but it just makes me so excited for the three years I have ahead. I have had the best experiences this year and for that, I am beyond grateful.

Last semester definitely seems like a major challenge in the moment, but looking back, I'm remembering how much fun I had at every different function I attended. Everyone was going through the same things and having a hard time adjusting to the lifestyle, but now that we are all finally completely at peace, everything is so much more fun.

As I look around at some of the girls I'm at the beach with, I'm realizing that I'm looking at some of my bridesmaids and lifelong friends. I never really thought how close I could become to a bunch of girls I only met in September. Spending almost every waking hour with the same people can really force a friendship but I am forever thankful for that.

Being away from my family has definitely been stranger but I know for a fact that I have become a stronger person because of it. I have learned to handle situations on my own and use my own judgment to make decisions about my everyday life.

College has taught me how to have self-control and how to say no. I've had to dedicate hours out of each day to make sure that I got the grades I need to be able to earn the job that I want.

I've had to say no to my friends going out to eat sometimes when I know I need to stay behind and study. Although I hated it at the time, it has been totally worth it.

Freshman year has taught me so many things and I am forever thankful for the opportunities it has provided me. I have met my best friends and have learned so many new things. I am so excited to see what the next three years has in store for me.