A freshman’s thank you letter to UMass

There is so much stress leading up to college and the fear of the unknown. You don’t know what to expect and there is no way of knowing until you get here. I had many fears as I awaited move in: Will I fail my classes? Will I make friends? My roommate definitely will think I’m weird. Will I get lost? Will I be happy? Turns out, I couldn’t be any happier.

I would like to start this thank you by addressing my family who pushed me and supported me. Thank you for putting up with my many ups and downs and still loving me when I promise to call and don’t. This freshman year has changed me – thank you for respecting me and loving me even if I tell you I only come home to see the dog.

Thank you to UMass, for giving me not only the education for a successful future but giving me a home away from home and for creating a community among a group of 22,000 individuals.

Thank you to my friends who have become my second family. I truly cannot imagine my life without you guys. Coming to school, making friends is one of the biggest fears for freshman, and I can honestly say I am blessed to have such amazing people in my life.

You have grown with me and faced the challenges of college together. Thank you for making me laugh until I cry, for the many late nights studying… or Ubering, for never failing to wake me during my naps and for yelling at me if I don’t refer to our dorm as “home,” because that’s what it has become.

Thank you to the dining hall workers who continue to feed us with the best food in the country… Yes, we are looking at you Berk. Thank you for always being there for me from the times of hunger or the times I just really need a bowl of ice cream.

Thank you to the teachers who have put up with my emails, annoying questions and naps in class after thirsty Thursdays. Thank you for the teachers that inspire me to learn everyday.  And to the teachers that have been absolutely awful… I am thankful your class is over and I do not feel bad about the bad evaluation.

Most of all, thank you to my roommate for dealing with me and all that comes with me. Freshman year throws a whole lot at you, whether you expect it or not. My ability to take all that freshman year has had to offer and run with it has been thanks to you. Your support and friendship means more than words could ever begin to explain.

Thank you for seeing all I am capable of even when I could not. You are the reason behind my success this year and I can’t imagine how the next four months will go waking up without my best friend here to take on the day with me.

Well UMass, I would say goodbye after this long, heartfelt and somewhat emotional letter but like I said, I’m a freshman… and this is only the beginning. See you in the fall.