Throwback to junior year of high school. I was sitting in my guidance counselor's office and we were talking about where I was thinking of applying to college. "Oh yeah, the University of Vermont," I said, to which she replied, "I really don't think you would like it there Emily, what's next?" Well boy, was she wrong. The moment I set foot on the University of Vermont's campus, I knew it was the place for me. UVM gave me a special vibe, and in my opinion the beautiful town of Burlington was a big part of that. While we may not rank #1 in the "official reports" (but we did rank #23 by bestcollegereviews.org), Burlington ranks #1 in my heart. Here it is folks, the top 10 reasons why Burlington is the best college town in the country.

1. Church Street

In winter, Church Street is full of beautiful lights, snow and a huge Christmas tree. In spring, it is full of color and blooming flowers. In the summer, it is full of happy kids off from school and puppies everywhere. In fall, it is full of changing leaves and returning students. There are different stores for everyone, clothing stores, little boutiques, larger chain stores, and a trip to Church Street always makes for a great day.

2. Creemees

No, no, not the same as soft serve. Much creamier and full of magic. Although not open year round, creemees are something everyone looks forward to in the summer months. Al's and Burlington Bay are some of the best places to name a few. Maple and Black Raspberry twist might not sound great, but it is by far the best ice cream mix I have ever had in my life.

3. The Mountains

Walking through UVM's campus, you see mountains to both the left and the right. Driving down the road? You'll see mountains. Going for a run? More mountains. It is such a gift to be surrounded by such natural beauty.

4. Local Food

The hardest part of going out to eat is choosing where to go since there are so many options. Farm-to-table food is a huge thing in Burlington. Many restaurants showcase local ingredients and help to celebrate local farms and farmers. The Farmhouse Tap & Grill and El Cortijo Taqueria are just two of the delicious restaurants within walking distance from Church Street, and if that isn't enough there's a Farmers Market almost every week! City Market is also great for local food, selling local cheese, milk, produce and more. City Market also makes a banging chicken pesto sandwich. Yum!

5. Lake Champlain

While the ocean may be a bit far away, the lake is a great alternative. With North Beach, Oakledge Park, and Leddy Park all within a ten minute drive, there are tons of spots to hang with friends for some fun in the sun. There are places to rent kayaks, paddleboards and dock motor boats, and tons of spots to cliff jump! Then when it gets frozen in the winter, it's fun to take a stroll on the lake and "walk on water." Catch a sunset on the lake year round for a relaxing end to your day.

6. The Music Scene

Between Higher Ground bringing artists like Trevor Hall, The National, Trombone Shorty, Keys N Krates, Lotus and Aaron Carter, and huge festivals like Grand Point North, there is always some poppin' music in Burly. And there's more? There are tons of venues downtown like Nectars and Radio Bean which host artists like Kat Wright and the Indomitable Soul Band, Squimley and the Woolens, argonaut&wasp, and MELON. There is always new, fun, and funky music to listen to, and there's always someone who would love to get groovy with ya.

7. Brunch

OK, OK, I know brunch is considered food... but Burly's brunch spots are some of the best in the country. Looking for greasy-hangover food? Check out Henry's Diner! What about some great Eggs Benny for Sunday brunch? Magnolias is my go-to place. Maybe something different like a breakfast burrito, biscuits and gravy, or gingerbread pancakes? Try out the homey Penny Cluse. In addition to all of these great spots, there are tons coffee spots and little bakeries to pop into on the go. Uncommon Grounds, August First Bakery, New Moon Cafe, Muddy Grounds, Scout & Co, and Maglianero Cafe are all yummy places to swing by and taste before you graduate, or on your next trip to Burly. The coffee shops are also a great new place to study!

8. Local Brews

For the over 21 gang, the local breweries add a whole 'nother world of greatness to Burlington. There are tours galore, tons of different craft beers, and lots of great local breweries like Switchback Brewing Co, Zero Gravity Brewing, Queen City Brewery, and Citizen Cider. The Alchemist is a small, family run, brewery specializing in unfiltered IPAs and they brew the hugely popular and highly demanded, Heady Topper. Such a great scene to look forward to once legal!

9. The Great Outdoors

Swimming, biking, kayaking, hiking, running, skiing, all in our backyard. With the lake within walking distance, and great Northeast skiing just a few miles away, there is always something to do outdoors. You'll find yourself surrounded by people who love nature just as much as you do and you'll always have a pal to adventure with. In the summer, you can find a local swimming hole, hike a new mountain, or rent some equipment on the lake, and in the winter you can ski the East, snowshoe on some great trails, or walk on the lake. So many places to explore, and so many beautiful spots to Insta.

10. The People

Maybe it's something you have to experience, but the people in Burlington are unlike people I've met anywhere else. Everyone is full of love for each other, this beautiful place, and the world in general. I find myself constantly questioning how I am so lucky to be surrounded by such caring and compassionate people, 24/7 when at school. Being around such positivity and good vibes can only lift one higher, and truly adds to the beauty of Burlington, Vermont.

If all of this didn't make you fall in love with Burlington, hopefully you'll at least visit and see for yourself. Thank you Burlington for being such an amazing town to study in, and for always making me excited to return. You are so unique and special, and even if I move away, you will always take up a special part of my heart.