Dear Little,

I cannot fathom how exciting it is to be adding you to our sorority family. At times I question if I am even old enough to be taking a little and thus becoming a big, because let's face it, at times I still feel like a child figuring out this whole college thing. Though Freshman year is wild and such a rush of new experiences, I could not have done it without my sorority family who spoke truth into my life when it felt as if the world was crashing down. I hope that I can be that encourager and light in your life just as the role models I have had over the past year. My big, grand big, and great-grand big have poured so much wisdom into my life, so here are a few things that I've learned from them to help you through this first year.

1. Grades are so important, but not worth your entire world.

Take the time to breathe and do not be afraid to ask for help or a study buddy. Although academics are why we are in college, do not forget to learn outside of the classroom through new experiences and adventures that reach beyond the pages of a textbook.

2. Written notes and cards go a long way whether they are for a friend's birthday or just because you wanted to.

Maybe I'm just cheesy, but taking the time to write cards is a great way to make other people's hearts warm and fuzzy to show how much you love them.

3. You are going to meet so many boys throughout the next four years, so don't worry about finding "the one" right now.

I can't even count on my hands the number of times Freshman year that a guy would make me feel like the most special person in the world one second and let me down the next, so don't worry because God will provide the perfect man for you in time.

4. As Old Dominion sings, "you can't keep the ground from shaking." Often times, most of what we worry about in college is out of our control, even though we try to grasp onto any handle we can.

And when that ground shakes, I promise to be there for you like my big has been for me. When the world comes crashing down around you, I'll be here to lift you up and be your cheerleader when you are on a mountaintop.

5. It's okay to make mistakes because college is a period where you find out who you really want to be.

As long as you are growing and continue to become a person you are proud to be, keep trying new things, keep learning, find what makes your heart sing. So what if that major you wanted originally is not your best fit? Or what does it matter if that group does not love you for who you are already? This is the prime time to become the person you will be the rest of your life, take chances and become who you want to be.

Sweet, sweet Little, we cannot wait for you to join our family and watch you grow and pursue a life you are proud of!

Love,

Your Big