Family (fam·​i·​ly) noun: a group of people united by certain convictions or a common affiliation(Thanks, Merriam- Webster!). This is the bare-boned definition of family; one version, one interpretation, one sentence. Yes, I believe that family can be summed up into that, but I also believe that family is so much more than those twelve words. My version of family doesn’t include terms like blood or relatives, because family includes so much more than that. To me, family is about choosing who you surround yourself with, who makes you see the world in different ways, who allows you to grow into your best self. I have surrounded myself with the best family in the world; rooted in the values of strength, kindness, determination, and loyalty of the Beta Psi chapter of Alpha Delta Pi. The girls who are simultaneously my best friends and my diamond family have inspired these words:

To Cece, my Diamond Grand-Big: you show me what it looks like to have confidence in my abilities. When I’m with you, you make me feel like I can do “big girl things” and I’m more sure of my footsteps in unfamiliar territory. You remind me that I can do what I put my mind to, and that hard work will pay off. Thank you for showing me what it’s like to be sure of myself.

To Cammie, my Diamond Aunt: you show me what it looks like to work hard and play hard. You are so intelligent and wise, but you know how to have fun. You are such a perfect balance of living for the future and living in the moment. I love your vivacity and grace, and I love you for exemplifying those qualities for me.

To Megan, my Diamond Cousin: you show me what it looks like to see the best in everyone. You are effortlessly kind and always know the right thing to say. You make hard days easier, and good days better. You truly are someone who lights up a room, and you bring out the best of everyone in it.

To Meghan, my Diamond Niece: you show me what it looks like to fight for what you believe in. You have the biggest heart of anyone I’ve ever met, and you inspire me through your actions. Your spirit and tenacity make you a real leader, and I am proud to follow you. You make me want to do good: for others, and for myself.

To Kaitlyn, my Diamond Big: you show me what it looks like to be there for the people you love. You love deeply and strongly. Time with you is always well spent, and I leave feeling fulfilled. I love that you have such a fun and playful side, and then there is a deep and thoughtful side too. Thank you for being there for me; you really are a strong pillar of unconditional love.

To Maddie, my Diamond Big: you show me what it looks like to be yourself. Together, we’ve laughed until we cried, and cried until we laughed. You’re the kind of person I feel like I’ve known my whole life, and can’t ever live without. When I think about the bonds of sisterhood in ADPi, I think of you; loyal, selfless, and a true friend.

And to Meaghan, my Diamond Little: you show me what it looks like to be a good friend. You are a good listener, a great confidant, and a wonderful person. You’re the kind of person that make people want to join a sorority. Your love for your friends, your family, and yourself runs deep and true and inspires others to love like you do. You are the biggest blessing to my year.

These women have helped me see the true bonds of sisterhood: they show me what it means to live for each other and for Alpha Delta Pi. Each one of these people have impacted me so deeply that I wouldn’t be the same person today if, a year and a half ago, I didn’t run home to 476 Rose Street.