When going to CLTC I had a lot of expectations. My friends made it sound like it was the most amazing and unforgettable experience in the world, and they constantly talked about the friends they made during it. When I got to CLTC, I instantly realized what they meant. I made connections with people from all over the country and can honestly say they’re some of my closest friends. But, I didn’t know that the strongest connection I’d make would be with someone who lives on the opposite side of the country, 2,210.8 miles away from me. At dinner, 3 days into CLTC, this girl I hadn’t seen yet walked into the dining hall. In my head, I thought I wouldn’t be close with her but, I gave her the benefit of the doubt and went and said hi to her. Now, 6 months later the same girl is one of my closest friends and flew to see me in Atlanta in November. The biggest lesson of this is don’t judge a book by its cover.