Being a senior in high school is great, but it’s also terrible. You’ve made these best friends that you’ve had by your side from the beginning. Knowing that next year you won’t be with them is one of the saddest things to think about.

If you’re anything like me, you are lucky enough to have had the same group of friends since middle school -- and even a best friend since kindergarten. When you hear about the colleges your BFFs are heading to, you’re so excited! But, there’s this kick in the stomach because you wish you could be right next to them come August.

Keeping these friendships in college is not hard at all, in my eyes. My friends are all over the state and in neighboring states. My brother was the same way and he kept the same friends all 4 years! Needless to say, I am not worried about losing touch. It just takes effort from both sides of the relationship. Talk on the phone, text, and video chats make the whole difference when it comes to keeping in touch. I even visit my friends at their schools and they come visit me. It’s exciting to experience what they know so well and meet their new peers.

Holiday breaks are the best time for you and your friends. Take a break from your college life and catch up with those people who are still important to your life. Don’t worry; you’ll be back to your school in no time. Plan something fun to do with your friends from home! I know I can’t wait to be with all my buddies again soon.

I’ve been fortunate enough to be friends with the same people for as long as I can remember. I’ve grown up with them and it’s definitely one aspect as to why I feel we can all stay friends throughout college. They have been by my side through everything and I know I can come to them whenever I need to. I think time away from your friends can even build a greater bond; you miss them so much and you can’t wait to see them! It’s a new feeling that you don’t get to experience with this specific group of people often. It may not be ideal, but if you care, you will make it work.

Lastly, to my friends (you know who you are): thank you for all you have done. I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for you guys. Thank you for the endless laughs and fantastic memories that I will forever cherish and I look forward to the many more to come. I can’t wait to see you soon. I hope you can also take my words and make the effort to keep in touch with the people you care about too.