Dear Little Bro,
It's hard for me to accept that you're actually graduating high school. I can't believe they passed you ;). It feels like just yesterday that a younger version of myself was jealous of all the attention the "new kid" was getting, or that we were rolling down the hill in the front yard. You had a pretty great four years in high school Mr. CHS, but let me assure you: the next four years of your life will quickly outshine the last four. I only want you to make sure that you remember a few things as you embark on your next big adventure: College.
Stay True to Yourself. Perhaps the most important of all. College presents you with challenges to conquer and decisions to make. College changes you in a lot of ways - Some good, some not so good. But, it doesn't have to change who you are. You have grown into an awesome guy, little bro. Throughout the next four years, stay true to the genuine, kind-hearted, hilarious, smart guy that you have become, no matter what.
It's a lot different than High School. You'll have to, actually, crack a textbook, and you'll have to learn the ever-so-sensitive balance between socializing, studying, and sleep. There will be things that you miss terribly, like playing football, and your high school friends. There will be stressful weeks, and there will be seemingly impossible assignments, but you'll make it through because you're so smart, and I always keep my old notes. Whenever you need motivation to get yourself to the library, come pay me a visit. I'm usually on the 4th floor, and I never mind a little company.
I love you - Greek or not Greek. The decision to go greek, can be a difficult decision to make. A life wearing letters is not for everyone. Whether you decide to pass on the opportunity to be a frat star, or you find a brotherhood that you see yourself being a strong part of, you will find your niche on Good Ol' Rocky Top, and I will continue to proudly boast about how great my little brother is. Whatever you decide, you can continue to count on me to support you, brag about you, and set you up with dates to sorority functions.
I'm always on your side. I told you that college will change you, and even I have experienced the point of my freshman year when I wasn't happy with the way that it had happened. No matter what it is, remember that you can always come to me about anything and everything. Throughout the next four years of your life, I'll be your biggest fan (besides mom and dad, but they haven't experience college in a while). Whether it's something as simple as reminding you not to take 8 AMs, or as challenging as accepting that the freshman 15 is real, I've always got your back.
Yeah, a lot is going to change within the year little bro, and I really wish you would stop growing up so fast. But I could not be more excited to share such an amazing campus, and school with one of my best friends. I could not be more excited for The University of Tennessee to gain such an awesome, talented, and outgoing student. nd I could not be more thrilled to see how much you grow and learn during your freshman year. I'm so glad we don't have to say goodbye again.
Love,
Your Big Sis
