1.    Homesickness isn’t quite as bad when you know a member of your family is only minutes away. Even if you are just grabbing a quick lunch or passing them on campus, it still gives you that small reminder of home to make things a little easier.   

2.     Older siblings many times come with cars, which is a luxury us underclassmen are not all fortunate enough to have. Need groceries or a way to get home on Thanksgiving break? They’re basically obligated to give you a ride.   

3.     Having an older sibling to show you the ropes means you’ll hopefully be a little less freshman-y during the first weeks of school. They are there to correct you when you call New Bar “The Woods” or to warn you about certain professors and classes.     

4.     When your dorm room starts feeling claustrophobic and you get sick of eating dining hall food every day, there is an off campus house or apartment with a fully stocked fridge waiting for you.     

5.     Your sibling’s friends mean more familiar faces around campus or in class, and they become especially helpful if you decide to rush a fraternity or sorority. Connections are key.  

6.     If they are kind enough to share, having your sibling at school means having another closet to pick from when you can’t find anything to wear out to 90's night.

7.     It is hard not to grow closer with your sibling when you are experiencing everything Oxford has to offer together. They may drive you crazy sometimes, but being able to share all of your amazing memories with someone you love is sure to make your time at Miami that much better.