As an only child, the concept of sisterhood is definitely not one that I fully understand. Also as a not-so-typical college girl, the concept of a sorority wasn’t one that I was fully on board with either in the beginning. Nonetheless, having a big has been one of the most life-giving experiences of my life and the things she’s reminded me of is why.

1. Take the chance.

This can go for anything: take that class, pursue that major or talk to that boy. My big has been the perfect role model of taking the opportunity that I’m given because there’s a reason that I have it and she can see why it’s there a lot easier than I can.

2. It's okay to make mistakes.

Even if that chance didn’t turn out to be the right one for me, it’s okay because another one is just around the corner. My big has reminded me that she’s made some too and lived to tell the tale. All in all, we all have, but it’s easy to forget that in all the layers of togetherness that came from the fact that we’ve rebuilt from failure. In so many words, my wonderful big reminds me that I’m doing fine when I don’t always feel like it.

3. Always be yourself.

More so than that, my big reminds me that being myself is the best thing that I can be because she accepts me for it, and anyone who doesn’t isn’t worth being around.

4. Live your best life.

Eat the seventh piece of pizza. Go to Taco Bell at 2 a.m. Take that trip. Work your butt off for that exam and sleep when it’s done. Whatever I need to do to achieve my best life, she’s right there next to me cheering me on and encouraging me to keep going.

5. You are loved.

This was something that I learned on the very first day that I was officially her little when she popped out from that box. In all of our screams and violent hugging, right then and there I knew that this girl appreciated me, wanted to have a good relationship with me and wanted to be there for me in any way that she could. Ever since that first day that she popped out of the box, I’ve been so thankful to have her in my life.