This past March, I was informed by my Big, Zoe Wright, that she would be studying abroad in Italy for the fall 2017 semester. I screamed with joy, congratulating her as we discussed the possibilities of beautiful sights, the incredible Italian culture, and (of course) the handsome foreign boys! I was genuinely happy for Zoe; she deserved to have an unforgettable experience making the best possible memories overseas. However, I suddenly came to the realization this summer that my Big studying abroad was the worst situation imaginable... it means she has to leave me for an entire semester!!

Let me clear things up. Of course, I want Zoe to have the time of her life. But how could she be so selfish? She is my Attack buddy on Baylor's lacrosse team and my best friend in my sorority. The idea of us being separated at school for five whole months is absolutely ridiculous. Therefore, I have come up with a list of 10 reasons why Zoe should ditch her plans of studying abroad in Italy in order to spend valuable time with her Little. With your support, we can stop this catastrophe, mend my broken heart, and ensure that the best Big/Little combo won't be separated this fall.

1. Our rendezvous for coffee at Dunkin' Donuts will be missed.

Zoe's passion for Dunkin' Donuts cannot be replaced by anyone else. The thought of me sipping on my coffee all by myself should make her have second thoughts about leaving me.

2. I need my Big to help with recruiting.

I always imagined that Zoe would be able to help me find my future Little during the fall semester. How will I ever be able to recruit the next baby ZTA for our family without her?? Her advice and support are desperately needed as I seek out the newest member of the Shambles family.

3. My Big is my party buddy.

What's better than wildly bumping into your Big at the Sigma Apple Pie party? Better yet, what's better than your Big taking you to the insanely fun fraternity parties?? No one has better fun than we do together!

4. We are the best lacrosse duo.

She's number #99 on the field, and my jersey number is #1. How can I give 100% at practices without her??

5. She's a (Big) supporter!

My Big is proud of me when I do well, and she pushes me to be my best! I have told her at least 500 times, "Zoe, I CAN'T finish my essay." Her simple, "Yes, you can," is needed to get me through the fall semester.

6. She makes me feel special.

Zoe revealed to me after initiation that she knew deep down I would be the perfect Little soon after we first met. She thought I would be an asset to Zeta Tau Alpha, and she knew we would be close friends. I mean, come on! How can I let her go??

7. I need her for BOY TALK!

If she's gone for an entire semester, she's going to miss Zeta's take-a-dates, social events, and even Formal!! She must give me advice in person regarding which cute boys I should invite to these events.

8. We won't be able to celebrate our birthdays together.

My birthday is in September, and Zoe's is in October. Everyone knows that families don't celebrate their birthdays apart. I mean, she's turning 21! She needs her Little to help her make important adult decisions on this important day!!

9. I will miss our dining hall adventures.

Zoe and I usually meet for the (questionably) delicious dining hall food for lunch at least twice a week. Authentic Italian cuisine cannot beat Penland's mystery Asian cuisine (which happens to be her go-to meal)!

10. I won't have the nerve to dance onstage with a live band at the club without her.

What is Austin's On The Avenue without Zoe Wright??? I don't even want to think about it.

I'm sure after reading this, everyone will agree that Zoe should not leave her Little for an entire semester. Her family, Zeta sisters, and I will all miss her terribly. But on the other hand, even though I will miss my Big tremendously, I could not be happier for her.

Italy is so lucky to have you for a semester, Zoe, and I know this will be the experience of a lifetime. You can expect thousands of Snapchats, texts, and Facetiming from me. However, it is not too late to change your mind. But if you must go, please bring back two hot Italian guys that we can take as our dates to Spring Semi-Formal. I miss you already!

Sincerely,

Your Little, Macy