Dear Milledgeville, this is a love letter.
To the place that has watched me grow into a mature adult, to the place that has changed me into the best version of myself.
I have grown to cherish even the little things about you over these four years. I love to hear the laughter of the community on the first Fridays of the month. I love the smell of Blackbird’s coffee in the morning. I love all of your historical buildings with their crooked smiles.
I love to see everyone having a good time at the Velvet Elvis. I love to enjoy a great piece of pizza from The Brick, and the Mediterranean flair from Metropolis. I love the rush of opportunity that has been given to me by your close-knit community.
Before committing to Georgia College, I spent a lot of time in Milledgeville as a kid. My family has always enjoyed the lake life here, so I was raised on it. The early morning lake sunrises, the chaotic Memorial weekend on the lake, and the smell of sunscreen being reapplied after tubing all day long.
Choosing to commit to Georgia College was easy, it felt like home naturally. The city has this charm that is warm and welcoming. If southern charm and hospitality was a place it would be you Milledgeville.
I have managed to open myself up to endless possibilities all because of this little town. I was scared to leave my busy city for Milledgeville, afraid of boredom.
I was so concerned when I moved to Milledgeville that “there was nothing to do.” Milledgeville showed me that I was wrong. I have made more friends, learned more skills, and picked up more hobbies and interests in this town, compared to my whole life.
I only have a few more months left with you Milledgeville, and I can say that every piece of me is grateful for what you have given me. The past four years have been vibrant, loving, and full of spirit. I feel rich in experience and love because of you, and I will be forever grateful. I will compare any home I have in the future to you; you have set the foundation for what I want in a city.
Although this sounds like a bittersweet goodbye, it’s not.
I couldn’t stay away from your charm even if I tried. Milledgeville, I will forever be able to call you, my home.
Happy Valentine's Milledgeville
Love you always, Madison Smith