It's often said that the friends you make in college are the ones you have for life. After completing my first year, I can understand why people think this way. My college friends have been among the most loyal, kind, and helpful people I've met in my whole life. There were those in high school who had their place, but college is different. People are always there to celebrate your accomplishments, pick you up when you're down (sometimes quite literally), and, in rare cases, bring you down to Earth when you say something you really shouldn't.

This is especially true for two specific boys that I've met. When I'm asked, "Who's your best friend?" I tell them it's you two. Of all the friends I've made, I consider these two to be my closest companions. In this letter, I want to write an open letter to them and thank them. Even if they never read this, hopefully, someone else who sees it will be able to relate. Here we go:

To my best friends,

As I look over the events of the past year, I'm constantly reminded of how lucky I am. You've been by my side through thick and thin, laughed with me, and supported me when I really couldn't do it for myself. It's always a joy and pleasure for me to be around you.

Thank you both for always giving off the energy I need to get through my day.

You guys have a warm, bubbly personality that can only be matched by your unconditional kindness, wicked intelligence, and dedication to your studies. I commend both of you for always being true to yourselves no matter what. Whether I'm looking for a study buddy (because, college), life advice, or just someone to talk to, you guys are the first ones I turn to. I know I can say anything on my mind and trust you to keep it between us.

Thank you both for your loyalty and kindness.

One thing I appreciate about my friends is their willingness to listen. One more than one occasion, I've caught myself going off on some random tangent or pointless rant. I, of course, realize how this can get annoying.

Thank you both for hearing me out all those times in the library. You know I'm more than happy to return the favor should you need it.

Part of being in a new environment is learning to interact with new people. While I've been successful for the most part, nobody's perfect. There have been times where I've said something that may be deemed inappropriate.

Thank you both (and everyone else, for that matter) for teaching me how to control and express myself. I've come a long way in the past year, but I still have a long way to go.

Thank you both for your patience.

What I'm trying to say, is I appreciate you both more than you could ever know. I've learned, lived, and laughed so much with both of you, and I've grown so much along the way. Thanks for sticking with me through the harder times, and for smiling along with me in my better moments. You're the best friends a guy could ask for, and I could never do this without you guys.

Thanks for making my first year of college one of the greatest years of my life. Here's to many more years and memories down the road. You guys are the best.

Alex