College is the time in your life that is all about exploration. It is four years to try new things, meet new people and learn a lot about yourself. It's where you will meet your best friends, the people who will be your future bridesmaids and friends for years to come. I have had the time of my life in college surrounded by so many amazing people, but some of my best times in college have happened off campus, out of state and nowhere near school. Some of my most memorable moments happened when my friends and I have packed up our stuff and gone on an adventure to somewhere completely new. So during these fast four years, it is important to take advantage of any chance to travel somewhere fun with your friends.

My friends and I have taken any and all opportunities to travel these past few years. Even though it can be tough to afford as college students, we make it a priority. You're only young once and we are never again going to be able to pack up and leave so easily. Going on trips with my friends has made us so much closer than we already were. Having the chance to experience so many new things together, spend hours in the car together, and make memories together has made our friendships even stronger. The times that we have spent laughing on long car rides, making travel playlists and learning all the words to every song on them during our drives, are some of my most treasured moments from college.

Having the opportunity to explore more of the world, especially while you're young is such an amazing thing. I have learned so much about our country from taking road trips while in college. I have experienced new foods, music, and traditions that I never knew existed. But the best thing about being able to travel at this time in your life is that you learn so much about yourself, what you do and don't like and what you want to do in the future.

Being able to explore different places in the country has given me a better idea of where I want to live after graduation. Each city that my friends and I have conquered I have fallen completely in love with because of the incredible memories we made. Expanding my horizons to the differences that exist in just this one country has been a great learning experience. Sometimes when you are sheltered in the bubble of your college campus, it can be hard to remember that anyone lives any differently. But taking the chance to explore beyond the walls of your college campus is important in realizing how much privilege we have as college students. That is why I urge you, if you ever have the chance, travel somewhere you've always wanted to go with your friends and create memories that will last a lifetime.