Last semester I went through the pledge process for APO, the co-ed service fraternity on campus. During the process I was given a big sibling to help me through the pledging process. I have known my big for a long time, she actually picked me out as her little way before I had actually pledged for APO. In honor of February being International Friendship Month, I decided to write this article about why my big is not just my big, but also my best friend.

Shortly after my big Kat pledged, she decided that when I would be pledging the next semester she would take me as a little. I immediately agreed because I knew she would be a great big for me and I was right. Throughout the pledging process, Kat helped me out greatly when it came to getting through the process and becoming a full-fledged brother of APO. I am so glad she was the one to help me through it all.

We used to get Starbucks every week and hang out. We have had a class together, we are part of the psych club and we bond over our mutual love of Disney. She was the best friend who got me through anything. I have learned that having your best friend as a big or vice versa, a big who becomes your best friend is a great thing because they will always be there for you APO-related or not. The family aspect you gain is amazing and I definitely feel like there will always be someone there for me.

Kat is currently abroad and I miss her with every fiber of my being. She is having all kinds of fun in Alicante, Spain living it up by the beach but I wish I could see her once in a while.