Story by Sara Howell, Features editor

I have always been into boy bands. Growing up, my sisters and I lived and breathed N’SYNC. It only made sense that when I discovered One Direction in 2011, I instantly became a fan.

I remember calling my friend Beth after I watched the music video for “What Makes You Beautiful” and totally fangirling. We were suckers for the accents and dreamy smiles. We listened to them on repeat and talked everyone’s ears off about them.

I was convinced I was going to marry Harry Styles; I low-key still am hopeful. Eventually, Beth and I got the chance to see them in concert. They opened up for Big Time Rush at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

I was not the biggest fan of BTR but I did (and still do) love Carlos Pena so it was still exciting to see them. I had a total fangirl moment when my tweet got featured on the screen before the show began. It was such an exhilarating and fun night that I’ll never forget.

The next time I saw them was with my best friend and now roommate, Madison. We rode to her house after school to get ready and gush about the show. One Direction headlined this one and 5 Seconds of Summer opened for them.

Being a huge fan of 5SOS, I was thrilled to see them too. We danced and sang the night away. Not only was One Direction better the second time around, but this concert helped me and Madison to become better friends.

It was definitely a good bonding moment. When Zayn left the band I was distraught; I was even more upset when they broke up altogether. Thinking of it now, I am happy they broke up and were all able to find their own sound.

While I am a fan of them all, I am the biggest fan of Harry Styles. He is such a talented and inspiring artist. Madison and I saw him in Nashville in the Ryman Auditorium and it was life-changing.

The balance between performing and interacting with the crowd was perfect. He was happy, energetic and free. He seemed to captivate the audience with his radiating positive energy.

It was fun seeing him in One Direction but it was mesmerizing seeing him in his own element. This band has not only given me music to jam to, but lifelong friendships and memories.