The first few weeks of college are intimidating enough between trying to figure out your class schedule, meeting new people, and getting a feel for being independent. On top of all of this chaos, I decided to go through formal recruitment my first month of college.
On the first day of recruitment, you visit all of the sororities on campus and socialize with different girls in the house. If your visit goes well, you hopefully get invited back for a house tour on day two of recruitment. I remember meeting the girl who would later become my big sister on the second day of recruitment.
My future big sis and I hit it off really well. We had to sit in a room and talk for almost half an hour. 30 minutes is a long time to talk with a stranger, especially when you're used to the same old repetitive conversations that you've had at the past three sororities.
It was different with this girl though. We both had so much in common and never had awkward pauses in our conversation or ran out of things to say. I felt so comfortable around someone who was a complete stranger at the time.
I was invited back to this sorority on day three of recruitment for a brunch. When I left the house that morning, I had no idea if I would receive a bid or not. With much excitement, I ended up receiving a bid from the sorority that I wanted to be in so badly. That evening, I ran to the sorority house as fast as I could and was welcomed home by the girl who would eventually become my big sister.
My future big sis and I became friends almost immediately.
We would text pretty frequently and would go get tea together. Eventually, it was big/little week. At first, I had no idea who my big was going to be and never assumed it to be this particular girl. I received a lot of different hints throughout the week which all related to "Gossip Girl."
At big/little reveal, the new members were blindfolded and had to sit on a chair. Our big sister was standing behind us and someone took a picture of us together with a Polaroid camera. We had to sit and wait for the film to develop. As soon as I realized who was standing behind me in the polaroid, I turned around and gave her the biggest hug.
Sometimes people get paired for big/little with girls who they aren't extremely close with or that they don't hang out with very much. I was fortunate enough to be matched with someone who has become one of my best friends.
Throughout the year, we have made many memories together. Whether it be going to dinner, hanging out at the sorority, or going out with the girls, we were with each other pretty frequently. She is the person I confide with about all of my life problems and I know she always gives honest, heartfelt advice.
I have never met a person more thoughtful or caring than my big sister. She is a spitfire with the richest soul. She pushes me to be a better person every day. I admire how much love she pours out for the rest of the world.
We may be attending different colleges next year, but that distance won't come between our friendship. I look forward to all of the visits and phone calls that are to come.
Big sis, if you're reading this, I want you to know that I am so proud of you for chasing your dreams. I believe you have the perseverance and dedication to turn your dreams into goals. I am so excited to watch you grow and will be rooting for you the entire way.
I love you to the moon and back a million times. Thank you so much for your kindness and support.
XOXO,
Your Little
