Joining a sorority was never something I planned on doing. I never imagined that I would go through the recruitment process, fall in love with a chapter, and literally run to them on bid day. I never pictured myself living in a sorority house or sleeping on a bunk bed at 20 years old, yet here I am, 20 years old and sleeping on a bunk bed in a sorority house of 60+ girls.

Most of all, I never imagined myself to be very close with my "big." Yet here I am, best friends with my big. Even though we've only known each other while in college, it seems like we've been friends forever. I feel like I have a lot of reasons to be thankful for her.

1. She is always there.

Sometimes college can be overwhelming and having a big means having someone who is there to give you a hug and tell you it's going to be OK.

2. She is the life of the party.

Ask anyone and everyone and they can agree.

3. She is encouraging.

Whether you're struggling with school or friends or life, she somehow always knows exactly what to say.

4. She works harder than anyone you know.

No one can pull an all-nighter and then function all day the next day quite like her.

5. I can be myself around her.

No matter the day, mood, or reason, she is always accepting of who you are.

6. She pays attention.

She remembers things that you told her months, or even a years, ago.

7. She cares.

When she asks how you are doing or what's going on in your life, it is genuine and you can tell every time she asks.

8. She is just like you and totally different all at the same time.

Do we get along because we're alike or because we're different? We'll probably never know.

So here's to you, Big, for being the absolute best.