I wasn’t sure what all to expect when I joined a sorority. Recruitment was an exciting yet stressful experience: trying to find my home, a place that I could truly thrive in. I had heard people talk about sororities — some positive things, some negative — but when it finally came down to it, reality far exceeded any of my expectations, overshadowing anything negative that anybody ever put out there.

When I joined, I didn’t just become a body lost in an ocean of 200 girls, I became a part of something larger and something way deeper. I became part of a family, and it’s a no brainer, I mean, it’s called a sisterhood for a reason, but that term didn’t resonate until I became an integral part of the sisterhood. People so commonly make the joke that in a sorority you are essentially paying for your friends, but just as Childish Gambino says, “I’ll take that as a compliment,” because these are some of the most dedicated and selfless girls I have ever met. They are there for each other on a consistent basis and I am so honored to be associated with them.

Now, to all my sisters, thank you for encouraging not only me but each other. For showing me what true friendship looks like and for showing me how love and care should be displayed. Thank you for never judging me when I showed up to chapter meeting with no makeup and my hair a mess because it had been a rough day, and for the abundance of prayers when things were going south. For making me laugh until I cry, for making sure I don’t eat alone, for being there for the biggest moments in life, and for making me feel better with ice cream and endless movie nights. Thank you for encouraging me to be the best version of myself, for pushing me towards my goals, for never giving up on me when I felt like giving up on myself. Thank you for telling me I could when everyone was saying otherwise. Most importantly, thank you for being my family away from home.

A letter simply can't express the gratitude I have for each of you. God put you guys in my life when I needed y’all the most, and that has been the biggest blessing. From one sister to another, love y’all with everything I have, because you guys are the ones who really deserve it.