Dear Reader,

It’s totally understandable to be nervous! Big/Little can definitely feel like a lot of pressure, but try to remember that it’s supposed to be fun. If everyone you have met has been sweet so far, I’m sure that you can’t go wrong! 

As far as advice goes, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Even if you don’t have a coffee chat with someone, you can still talk to them and they can still be your Big. Until the form is submitted, it’s not too late to meet your future Big.

During coffee chats just be yourself; don’t try to perform or try to make them like you. You’ll want a big who you can be yourself around, even if that means sitting through a few awkward coffee chats to find that person. 

Since you feel like you don’t know any of the people you’ve met super well, you should ask around! Ask sophomores who you do know well or other freshmen who may know any potential Bigs.

It may sound cheesy, but trust the process. Things have a way of working themselves out a lot of the time, and chances are, you’ll get a Big who will adore and cherish you. 

I will say, as a sophomore, I’m nervous too. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to find someone who wants them back and fits into their family. 

I’m not sure how comforting this will be but there are all kinds of Big/Little relationships on this campus. Some are super close and the best of friends, some have a family dinner once a month, while others see each other only a couple times a semester at big events like crush or formal. If you end up not liking your Big, no big deal! You aren’t going to be forced into being their best friend, and you can still be close with any of the other sophomores in your house. 

Big/Little is supposed to be something that integrates you into your house and makes you feel welcome and like you belong. But also, it’s important to remember that it’s all fake (none of us are actually related), so don’t put too much pressure on yourself. 

Most of all, enjoy Big/Little week! It’s a week full of gifts, surprises and suspense so soak it all up. Pretty soon you might find yourself with a Little of your own. No matter what happens, you’ll find your people—through Big/Little or naturally over time.

Wishing you a fun and stress-free Big/Little experience,

Annabel Groseclose ‘27