There is a lot to be thankful for at Clemson University as it gives us opportunities to embrace living in a small college town, cheering on sports teams and meeting friends that last a lifetime. With only one semester of college left before I graduate, I have become increasingly thankful for the beautiful opportunities Clemson has given me during my time here. 

As I look out my bedroom window with a view of the massive football stadium to my left and a view of Clemson’s lively downtown to the right, I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. With everything in close proximity, Clemson’s campus gives students the opportunity to walk downtown on Friday nights, walk to football games on Saturdays and treat themselves at one of the many restaurants Clemson has on Sundays. 

As I recollect on my time spent here, I realize that Clemson has given me a group of best friends that have become my roommates and now feel like my sisters. Like many of the best things in life, I initially met my friends not realizing that they would have such a substantial impact on me. I didn’t realize when I met them through friends of friends that we would be getting each other through brutal exams, relationship issues and struggles with mental health. I always heard before I came to college that the friends you have at home are the friends you grow up with, and the friends you have at college are ones you choose. Even though I refused to believe this during the beginning of my freshman year, I soon realized that I wouldn’t choose anyone else to live my best years with than the friends I have now. 

I can’t thank Clemson enough for the amazing opportunities it has given me to succeed in school and life and the lessons it has taught me during my time here. This Thanksgiving, like every other day, I am so grateful for Clemson at the love it has shown me and filled me with.