A Letter to my Big | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyles

A Letter To My Big — And Everyone Who Just Read That And Rolled Their Eyes

This past year I learned a sorority big is much more than someone for flawless photos

311
A Letter To My Big — And Everyone Who Just Read That And Rolled Their Eyes
Sarah Culmone

Dear Reader,

If you read the title of this and rolled your eyes, I guessing you aren't much of a "Greek Life" person. It's okay, I respect and understand it. Not everyone found a home in a sorority or fraternity in college. I was one of the fortunate ones who did. Now I'm sure you cringe at the thought of a peppy girl in their letters yelling, "MY BIG!" I did too, once. But then I got one and saw the true meaning of getting a big.

Dear Christine,

Hi. I'm sure by now you know how much I appreciate you, but I wanted to publish it to the world and show people how awesome not only having a big is, but having you as a big is. You took me on as a little before ever meeting me, and I knew then that you would be someone special. To have a heart kind enough to take a random blonde girl into your family was risky, and I hope you agree that it paid off. From the "Big Reveal" night, I was so excited to get to know you and my twin Casey. When the tapestry dropped, we both had huge smiles on our faces and I knew our story would go way beyond a basket of my favorite snacks (even though I did devour them quickly).

Dear Reader,

Here's the concept: When girls end up in a sorority, one of the most exciting aspects is getting your big. Basically, it's someone you met during the process of ending up in the sorority, in my case Alpha Gamma Delta (AGD), and you want as your mom basically. They are there for everything and are supposed to help you through it all. See, Christine said she would take me as a big before ever meeting me. Most people would consider that as crazy because she's devoting herself to be there for a girl, to be there through everything, who she never even met. Lucky for her, I was not too weird. But I instantly knew that if she took me on blind, her heart was gold.

Dear Christine,

While you have graduated, you're never getting rid of me. I cherish some of our greatest moments together, from the small ones to the big ones. I remember when we were both at work being tour guides, and we were asked to pick up the pizza for lunch. We hopped in your car together, and while it was only a five-minute drive, we laughed the entire time. I remember when we finally pulled over my face hurt and it felt like I had grown a six-pack from all of the laughter. On the other hand, I remember when I wanted to walk to your house from campus one day and could not find it for the life of me. While it was only a few minutes outside of the gate, I struggled so badly. Once I arrived, you wouldn't stop laughing and still to this day remind me how I got lost to a house only two minutes down the road.

Dear Reader,

Being a Big, in Christine's case, went beyond AGD. She was there for me on any occasion, always making me laugh and feel safe. Sure, the title "Big" may be off-putting to some, but to me, she was someone I could always count on to be there for me, regardless of the situation. Christine graduated from Nursing School, which I took every advantage off. Whether it was a papercut or a stubbed toe, I would call her and ask what to do. Most times the conversations ended with us laughing at how ridiculous I was being, but the pain always went away by the time we hung up. Our relationship went beyond a title and is something I'll keep with me forever.

Dear Christine,

Thank you. Thank you for taking me in, being so kind, and helping me be a better person. As you read this, expect to see me soon because we're not too far away. I can't wait to see where you go, and I know you'll be the best nurse ever (I gave you good practice). Thank you for being my big.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

18379
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7819
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5720
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4963
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments