While nobody will ever come close to my real family at home, it is nice to know, and reassure my parents, that I am finding a support group here in college. I have discovered that the people closest to me have all taken a role in this odd “family” of mine. Some of them may not even know the others, but they have all taken on a very important role in making my last month here successful, exciting, and safe.

The Really Close Sisters

In real life, these would be the people you share a room with and fight with more than anyone else. In my life, these are the people I share a room with and fight with, and love, more than anyone else. The sisters you make here are the people that will always be there for you (kind of because they sleep three feet away from you).

The Body Guard Brother

This is the guy you know you can turn to if someone is getting on your nerves. They are protective and are always watching out for you when you’re out. They always threaten to beat someone to a pulp; you know you’ll never need them to do that but it’s nice to know it’s an option.

The Big Sister

This is the sibling who you admire and strive to be like. You are excited by everything she can teach you. She is the smartest and kindest and seems to have everything figured out. She gives the best advice and support. You hope that one day you will be as good a big (sister) as she is to you.

The Dad

We all know the guy with terrible “dad” jokes. He barbeques at least once a week and wears Hawaiian shirts every day without fail. He is completely understanding and just wants what is best for you. He is able to give advice on almost any topic and encourages you to be the best you can be.

The Mom

This is the friend who is 40 years older than their actual age. They like to be in bed by 10:00pm and have a purse like Mary Poppins. She is wise beyond her years, but still knows how to have fun. She will always come and pick you up or walk you home. She even takes care of you when you’re sick and knows how to do that thing with the back of her hand to tell if you have a fever or not.

The “Fun” Siblings

They know when all of the parties are and can tell you what is happening with everyone on campus. It confuses you how they can retain so much information in their head when it is hard for you to even remember where you put your glasses (they were on your head). They are the people you hang out with most and always have fun with.

Thank you to everyone who has been like family to me. I can't wait for our next years together to grow with each other and for our family to grow.