College is truly an amazing time. There is so much time to learn, grow, build relationships, try new things, and be young and reckless. It is something that so many young people pride and value, and picking a college is a big decision.

I remember my senior year when I officially picked my university. I had so many nervous thoughts going through my mind. I mean I had visited 6 different schools, how was I supposed to know that this was the right one? I though to myself, was it going to be fun? Will I succeed? Will I make lifelong friends? Will this school be everything I hoped for? And let me tell you, it is everything I hoped for & MORE.

I suppose I am very lucky that I met some of the best people I’ve ever met right from the start. After my first couple of weeks at school, I knew that it was the perfect school for me. My whole freshman year was exactly how I had imagined it. I met great friends, did rebellious things because I didn’t have parents, studied hard, and probably had too much fun. I wouldn’t change it for anything. And as I continue with school at the same university, my love for this school only grows. Sometimes as I walk through campus I stop and look around and think about how lucky I am to attend here.

I never thought that I would look forward to going back to school, but I guess that happens when you love it. It broke my heart to leave for the summer and I missed my friends and school life before I even left. And although I love being home with my family, a little piece of me will always be at school.

This school has given me countless memories and opportunities that I am beyond grateful for. I have grown as a student and as a young adult. I have learned so much through my studies and about life. I have met so many inspiring people and formed great relationships that I hope to hold onto for life. My school has given me friends that have turned into family and the ability to be more independent than I thought I could be.

So thank you to my senior year self for choosing the school you did. Because it may have been the best damn decision you’ve made. Thank God I still have two more years.

And to the seniors going to college in the fall, I hope you fall in love with your school the way I did.