To my little sister,

Congratulations! You finally made it to your senior year. Words can not express how proud I am of you, in all that you have accomplished thus far in your life. Cliche— but in the blink of an eye I went from helping you wiggle into your sweet sixteen dress, to exploring potential universities with you. I always thought you were so far behind me being two years younger, but now as I think to myself, "Here I go, entering my second year of college," I realize— here you go too. Here you go, ready to make your mark on the world ahead. I know you're going to be extraordinary and while the majors, cost, location, and size of your secondary education all matter greatly; remember that a couple months from now as you're walking with your cap, gown, and diploma in hand, that these do too:

Remember:

1. You have to go because you want too.

If there is one thing you do not pick based upon your family, friends, or current boyfriend— it's where you go to college. College is more than the place where you will be for the next four years. It's where you meet your life long friends, discover yourself, and where you call your second home (So you have got to love it!).

2. Pick a University with good food.

It's totally normal to eat completely unhealthy when you first get to college because— hey you can. But that will quickly catch up to you. Avoid the freshman fifteen and make sure your school of choice has some healthy alternatives.

3. Always stay true to yourself.

This is where doing things for other people, to impress other people, or to be like other people stops. This is the time to follow your heart in all that you do. It will never fail you and I promise that you will meet others like you along the way.

4. Strive for the best.

What ever you choose to do in life, never settle for less than you deserve and never expect more out of what you put in. Strive.

5. Don't overwhelm yourself.

It's OK to not get a 4.0 your first semester. It's okay to not be involved in 10 different things. It's okay to take a step back from everything to focus on your studies— C's get degrees but you're better than that.

6. What you're there for.

Savor the nights that become memories and the friends that become family but don't take your eye off the prize.

7. Tylenol is your best friend.

Whether it's head aches, cramps, or a bad hangover, always have it handy.

8. Invest your time with others.

Anti-socialism may be easy, but it's difficult to come back from.

9. Take the jump.

You may be nervous at first, but that leap of faith can gift you with everything you've ever hoped for from your college experience.

10. I'm only one phone call away.

Your decision to stay home, dorm, or attend a school across the country will never mean that you're on your own. A big sister's job is to be there for her little one 24/7. Whether it's assistance with your schedule, celebrating great news, nursing a mental break down, or a simple quick hello; always remember: I will never not have time for you.