Yeah, he stole all the best beyblades and wrote me off as Percy when he got to be Thomas (the Tank Engine, that is), but somehow even after the tragic middle school years of screaming matches and rivalry, we’ve come to love and respect each other. He’s my brother, and last fall I followed him to college.
These are 4 reasons that going to college with your sibling is a killer idea:
1. Parents
Your parents will probably be THRILLED! You just made their lives 100x easier by re-locating together. That means one-trip-sees-all visiting abilities and less money spent sending two packages as opposed to one. Conference calls aren't necessary when you can meet up with your brother or sister for a quick face time, and it’ll warm Mom and Dad’s hearts that you’re spending quality time together! This is their ultimate dream. Plus, they won't have to suffer another learning curve with bill payments or other online forums. They’ll already know the 4-1-1.
2. Financial Aid
Financial aid offices are likely to be a bit more generous to sibling students. When I applied, the school did not recognize the fact that I was a sibling of another student. But after I called and talked to them, they were more than happy to adjust my financial aid package.
3. Networking is a BREEZE
If you have a sibling already enrolled at a college or university, chances are that they know some people. It's no secret that success involves networking, and having a brother or sister on campus can help you be recognized. They can also introduce you to professors and on campus employers.
4. Emotional Support
Having a family member at school is so wonderfully unique, because no matter what, you have someone there for you. They know what “home” means, they know what you’ve been through, and they’ll be there at midnight when that kid that broke your heart this summer gives you hell. They’ll be around when you need a good cry in the quad at midnight, and in the car next to you chatting on the long trips home (they’ll even share the drive)! They know how crazy Mom and Dad might get about certain things, and they feel your pain. They’re the most qualified to call you out on your crap, and get you on the right path when you’re falling apart. They’re someone to talk to, and that’s a blessing when you move away from all your friends and most of your family. Having someone to just talk to is seriously priceless. Finally, you’ve got an “I Love You” in close proximity, and on a bad day, sometimes that's all you need to hear.
Going to school with your sibling is (in my opinion) one of the best things you can do for yourself. Now, sibling relationships vary, and some people are willing to do everything they can to shake their bugger little sister when they leave for school, but if you’re close with a sibling, it’s really something to consider. My brother I are closer now than we’ve ever been. Needless to say: make sure you don’t base a huge life decision SOLELY on your sib! You have to love the school, too! You still have separate lives and separate goals, but sharing school pride can be something seriously special.
