Dearest brother,

Your life is about to change drastically. You are about to move 200+ miles away from home leaving your past behind. As you start off new, I want you to remember a few things.

You are leaving your friends behind, yes, but it is the best adventure you could take. I am aware that we were never taught how to make friends and that the last time we had to make new friends was when we entered first grade. But I also know that you will make incredible friends who will be hard for you to leave over breaks. And eventually, these friends will become closer to you than your home friends because of the experiences you will share with them that are beyond different than the ones you shared with those at home.

Don’t miss out on a moment you can only get in college. College is filled with an array of experiences, ones that you can't have once you graduate. Grab these takeaways and turn them into memories with your new friends. Go to a new restaurant, join a new club, do something you wouldn’t have been able to do at home. Just be sure to keep me updated on all the cool new things you accomplish.

We, your family, are still here. You may think you can handle this transition to college alone, but I can assure you there are times where you won’t. Don’t be afraid to call us at 3 a.m. about how you're worried about your exam or asking us how to do laundry, or for advice. I did it. Mom and Dad won’t get annoyed. Remember, they don’t want us to be 100 percent independent from them. They aren’t ready for you to be a grown up and neither and I, so call us. Tell us what’s new and how you are doing. Don’t be afraid.

Everything will be okay. Not only are you doing a big leap of independence but you are also doing it 200+ miles away. But you are ready. We wouldn’t send you off if you weren't. Today as you graduate, I want you to know how proud I am of you for taking this leap alone. I was definitely scared, but you are going into it with the mindset I wish I had: confidence. And for that, I want to congratulate you as you graduate and tackle your next adventure.

Love,

Your sister