For as long as I can remember, reading has been my source of comfort I can run back to over and over again. With each book I read, I was able to experience new lives, emotions, perspectives, and so much more. Every story I read made me realize that each person I meet has one of their own too and in a way, allows me greater understanding of people's situations even when I don't have the full picture. Books show me that it only takes a bit of your time to listen to gain a better understanding of others. As I continue my education at the University of Georgia, I know that I am surrounded by numerous people with totally different experiences than I have. I am able to approach them with the curiosity and empathy I've learned from reading, and treat these people how I would when I read a new book; with an open mind and the willingness to listen without any judgment beforehand. After all, you can “never judge a book by its cover.” Reading has taught me to listen, to understand, and to stay curious, and I hope to carry the same mindset with me as I go further into my experience as a UGA student.