Four years ago I remember the stress you were going through about getting into your dream college, the University of Texas. Now fast forward three and a half years later here you are standing at the front lines of you starting adulthood, graduating college with a major in biology and a minor in business from the University of Texas about to start a new chapter in your life.

Whether it's medical school, or backpacking through Europe I know that you'll do everything to your best of your ability and enjoy every moment that comes your way. Its because of you, I go into every class and do every assignment as best as I could, putting my best foot forward and always trying to find the best out of every situation. You are a cousin who doubles back as a best friend, and a mentor, thank you for always being you and never letting me ever doubt your friendship or loyalty. I remember when we were little kids, riding our bikes and razor scooters up and down the road having a blast racing down the hills as fast as we can. Then there's this big crash and all you hear is me screaming and crying because I crashed on the sidewalk the first person that ran to me was you. The way you helped me get back on my feet and made sure I wasn't extremely hurt made me realize that you going to college to become a doctor is what you were born to do. Whenever one of us cousins were down in the dumps you were always the first person to try and make us smile. So thank you for being you. Thank you for defying the odds, and reaching for the stars no matter how far they were. Thank you for showing me it's never easy but it's never impossible. If it wasn't for you and your perseverance to never give up and always give everything your best, I wouldn't be where I am today. Waking up every day with the strength and will to give it my all. John Dewey once said "Arriving at one goal is the starting point to another." and you graduating college is only a stepping stone to what is ahead in life for you. So congrats on accomplishing one goal and opening the door for many others. Just remember no matter how hard it is, keep your head up and give it your all. And never forget to hook 'em horns.