Dear 18-year-old Gabby, 

The flowers are in bloom right now. The bursts of whites and pinks are scattered around campus. Occasionally while walking to class, the sweet floral scent washes over me, and I slow down, close my eyes and breathe it in. 

Slow down. Close your eyes. Breathe it in. 

You made it to MSU. I’m so proud of you. You have no idea what’s in store or who you’ll be in four years, but remember to smell the flowers. Remember to play cards for too long the night before your 8:30 a.m. Remember to linger outside the doors to Wells Hall with your hood down before walking in to escape the rain. To take irrelevant english classes. To invite her to dinner. To ask for his number. To apply for the job. 

Remember to thank all the people who made this possible. Remember to take your time. 

Take your time because the flowers are already starting to wilt. Close your eyes because I know you’re scared. Breathe it in because you made it. 

We made it. 

Love you to the moon and stars and back again, 

Gabby