We treat friendship like background music: comforting, constant, easily taken for granted. Yet friendship is the architecture holding most of us upright. It shapes us, steadies us, reminds us who we are when everything else feels unsteady. And still, with the people who show up for us most consistently, we hesitate to offer the simplest words: I love you.

Young understands that it can be challenging for students unfamiliar with Bosley’s classification as a service dog to know how to act. However, Young encourages questions and is happy to share about her condition and Bosley’s role.

I’m not saying that no college student should ever get a pet. I’m saying that you should consider waiting to get one until you’re sure you can provide for yourself and your pet without making incredible sacrifices for either.

Whether you share the same interests as your parents or not, it’s important to take these years seriously. We’re all busy in college, but send your parents this article and let them know you love them. Maybe ask what they want to do sometimes. It can go a long way; trust me.