This week is Big/Little week for my sorority, and I’m definitely excited. Having this type of relationship is special to me, as I am not only the youngest in my family but I am the youngest with three older brothers. Now I am the one who is being looked up to and has to be the leader, as opposed to proving myself while also being protected. This is what being a Big is about—setting an example and helping your Little through their new member process. What being a Big is not about: spending absurd amounts of money in order to show your Little how much you love them.

Here is what I take issue with during this week—when it becomes competitive because of money or possessiveness. First and foremost, you should be able to prove your love for someone through your actions, not by how much money you can spend on them. Some sororities have limits to how much each person can spend on their Little, which I am all for. I have also heard of sororities that require a minimum amount of money be spent, which is not something I agree with.

This leads to my second problem with spending during this week: it perpetuates the idea of Greek life as being only for the rich. If someone is considering joining Greek life but worried about dues, the addition of Big/Little week is only going to increase their hesitations. While you don’t have to take a Little, it’s nice to have the opportunity. People shouldn't be turned away from Greek life or this week because of financial expectations.

With that being said, I am still going to spend money on my Little. I am setting a limit for myself, and I encourage others to do the same. Also, I have tried to get gifts that are more personal. The point I'm trying to make here is that people should only spend what they are comfortable with, and they should keep in mind that Big/Little week is not a competition.

Most importantly for all you Bigs out there—the dollar store is your friend!