It’s hard to believe that it was almost four years ago when I was packing up my car and leaving Colorado for my big college debut. I came to Columbia with a gut feeling that this was the school for me, and that was all I needed.

I look back now, wondering how I was so daring and how it could have possibly managed to work out how it did.

I didn’t know a single soul when I came here, and not only did I become good friends with one of my first college roommates, but I met a slew of people that have all made an impact on the student I became, as well as the person I’ve evolved into.

I’ll never forget freshman year when the White Sox won the World Series and how everyone did a mad dash out of the 2 E. 8th residence hall, only to start a riot outside of the University Center. I will always keep in mind that I was one of the few students who lived in 2 E. 8th when it actually had more furniture in the lobby than just the security desk.

I will laugh about how much of a debacle it was trying to figure out which building was “Building S.”

I’ll hope and pray that our 16th floor reality show never becomes a “True Life” episode.

Nothing will ever compare to the summer in Prague, where a new family was created, even if it was because of the cheap beer and rolls.

I will forever remember what a pain it was to have to take the FIT test—thank God I passed—and I’ll do my best to remember the feeling of completing a class.

I will treasure the memories of different apartments and new roommates, even the little shoe box I’m currently in.

I’ll remind myself to look at my horoscope, even though it won’t be from the Chumby, and I will not miss always asking where my scissors were.

In years to come, I will remember how I was at the Obama rally and tell stories about my 21st birthday that was rooftop at a Cubs game.

I hope to always remember times by the lake, the view from Lake Shore Drive, and how the lights on top of the Sears Tower change colors.

But, it will still remain a complete mystery to me how I was able to stumble across such amazing people and places in such a short period of time.

I will forever be indebted to all of the people that have gone out of their way to make my college career what is has been.

To Chronland: This is such a bittersweet ending for me; I will miss the Fridays, the humor and, most importantly, all of you.

To the other 13 I went to Europe with and Mr. Hamilton: “Na stra vee!”

To Advertising Practicum: Well, we’re pretty much awesome, and I have flashbacks every time I look at our book.

Finally, to all of the girls on CCMA, those were good times. Thank you, Shanita.

As I’m entering this new chapter in my life, I’m not really sure where the wind will take me.

All I know is that I’m as ready as I ever will be.