Getting ready for college is a very exciting life event, little sister. I can relate with you the amount of time you have spent picking out your bedspread, color coordinating with your roommate and printing off pictures of your cat because you are going to miss him. You are anxious to be on your own and start the best years of your life. However, since I am your older sister and am much wiser, I have prepared my own list of advice for you.
1. Value your relationship with Mom and Dad.
I know going off to college you might think you don't need them anymore, but you can not be more wrong. Yes, you love mom and dad with all your heart, but your appreciation for them will only grow throughout your college years. They will be your biggest supporters with whatever life throws at you. Believe it or not, they have become my best friends which says something because I would have never given them that title three years ago.
2. No crop tops.
If you ever go out and experience the college nightlife, you will see numerous ladies wearing crops tops. Do not be one of those ladies. There are plenty of whole shirts you can wear and look just as good if not better. Remember, be classy, not trashy!
3. Get involved.
I cannot stress this point enough! It's not that I want you to get involved with every organization that I was a part of, but I want you to find what you are passionate about. Organizations allow you to be part of something bigger than yourself. Plus, you will meet wonderful individuals who will only push you to be the best version of yourself.
4. Don't fret about the weight you might gain.
The freshman 15 is no joke, and you can try hard to prevent the weight gain, but more than likely it will happen. This doesn't mean you should let yourself go completely. Make it a goal to eat a salad for lunch a few times a week along with going to the gym.
5. There will be a "mean girl" and avoid her at all costs.
Some young ladies who attend college are still stuck in the high school mindset and feel like they need to have a clique with one young lady being the superior. Please don't be a part of this clique. I know you can think for yourself. That is the best aspect about college -- it's not high school.
6. Be yourself.
My favorite quality, well one of my favorite qualities about you, is that you are your own person. I could not have picked a more fun, loving and interesting sister. I would hate to see you change in college because you don't want people to think you are different. Embrace the way you hold a grudge or how you can curl your lips into your mouth and only show your teeth. Trust me, that is a special talent!
7. Take lots of pictures, but don't post all of them on Facebook.
Remember that anything you put on social media, will be there forever. You might think a picture won't come back and haunt you, but you will more than likely be wrong. I know you want to share your experiences with your Facebook friends, but they don't need to know everything you do. Take the pictures of the crazy nights out with floormates, but keep them for your own pleasure.
8. Stay in touch with me; I'm your biggest fan.
Lucky for you, you have never had to live a day without me in your life. Even when I went off to college and left you to finish high school, we were in constant contact. I appreciated the times you sent me snapchats of my cat more than you know. So, keep texting me random questions and I promise to answer truthfully. No matter what happens, I'll always be on your side. As cliche as it sounds, a sister is a life-long best friend -- even if your little sister is taller than you.
9. Take time for yourself, a.k.a. Netflix.
Another best part about college is always having friends to do something with, but that can also be the worst. Alone time is crucial just so you can breathe and think clearly. In my experience, Netflix has been great because I can put on a mindless show like "Bob's Burgers" and relax. However, you need to finish "One Tree Hill." I promise, it will change your life!
