Of the days we've spent with you, All hail our own Purdue...

Time to get sappy. This post  will have nothing to do with wedding stuff, or moving to Colorado. In fact,  it's a tribute to those who have made my entire academic career  absolutely amazing. Five years ago, I remember sitting at my computer, like I am right now, debating which college I should go to. Clicking  through University photos and reading student experiences, I realized I  just had to go with my gut.

One of the best decisions I've ever  made to date.

Purdue, Purdon't. I've matured into someone I never  thought I would be. Every choice I have made in the past, whether it be  good or bad, has shaped me into the person I am today. I'm more than  content. Who would think leaving West Lafayette would be so hard? As  ready as I am to leave the campus atmosphere,  Target inspired wardrobes, and late night eating due to boredom  and well, other things, I can't forget what being here has done for me.  So much, that I can't even express the half of it in words.

Best  Friends. New Friends. Old Friends. Acquaintances. Facebook Friends.  Passerby's. They all have some kind of impact. Maybe it's Jessica. You  were only friends with her for a few months, but you needed the  friendship then because it helped you through a horrible breakup with  your boyfriend. Or maybe it's Haili. She's been your best friend through most of college. Maybe it's Kyle. He not only been your best friend for the past year, but now your fiance. Everyone has an impact,  whether you like it or not.

Just 4 years . I had no idea I'd learn professional etiquette,find my husband, find my  bridesmaids, discover my career path, and have the time of my life. Why  is the first and last thing I want to do is graduate?

What really  prompted me to become sad is the realization of losing my youth. Not to  be dramatic, but things will change the second May 15th quickly comes  and goes. No more skipping classes due to the 80 degree, perfect  weather. No more deciding to just lay in bed and watch movies all day  because I feel like it. No more staying out until the wee hours of the  morning on week nights. As I have done the final critique of my resume and finish up the  research on schools I'll be applying to, I will start (have started) selling my soul; with the simple left click on "send message."

There's  comfort here in this college town. But luckily, there's a new chapter  of life ahead to experience. It's time to say goodbye to my Purdue safe  haven; at least I have three weeks left to do so. I was told by elders  that college will be the quickest four years of my life. They weren't  kidding.

:cue in sad graduation song: