By: Kaleigh Pryor
When it comes to sorority life and sisterhood, the bond between members is extremely important and is the foundation that holds the group together. But arguably no relationship is as influential and impactful as the connection between big and little.
A big-little relationship is a mentorship program for new members to cultivate a strong connection with an older member. Bigs are responsible and reliable initiated members who are willing to be a resource to younger women who are trying to balance the newness of college and sorority.
Two Tri Sigma women, Annie Allgaier and Austin Hoverder, have been extremely involved within their chapter, on campus and in their community. Allgaier, who is a nursing student, has held multiple leadership positions within sorority life while also being involved with new-student orientation. Hoverder, who is a public relations major, is a Western cheerleader and is the founder of the Water Project on campus.
As diverse and extensive as their interests might be, both Allgaier and Hoverder agree that their relationship with their big has been the greatest take-away while at Western, and the opportunity to become a big has been rewarding and fulfilling, as well. Allgaier says that she learned about being a great leader from her big.
“Your big is the person you go to with your problems and the member you look up to,” Allgaier said. “That’s how you learn what’s expected of you, and they teach you how to better yourself.”
Although littles don’t technically need to be best friends with their bigs, a strong connection always helps establish a successful partnership. What is most important is that a big is a support system — someone who checks in with a new member to provide clarity and assistance throughout their initiation process and beyond. Hoverder explains that the relationship can develop into much more than this though.
“Bigs are your mentors,” Hoverder said. “But most of the time, they end up being your best friend.”
The relationship that is established between big and little encompasses how many sorority women feel about their experience as members of their organizations and the bonds they have created with all the members. Big-little pairings are influential to both companions and can develop into lasting friendships that go far beyond the women’s years in college. Allgaier believes this will be the case for her and her big.
“My big has always been there for me no matter what,” Allgaier said. “She has been my rock and that’s what being a big means to me.”