Senior Farewell

As yet another semester comes to a close, it's hard to believe that we'll be returning in January with two less sisters by our sides.  Seniors Thea Dietrick and Anna Drew Jackson have been such integral parts of this chapter, so I wanted to be sure that they left knowing how truly loved and appreciated they are.

Thea will be spending her final semester in Hong Kong as part of USC's International Business program before moving to Tampa, Florida to pursue a career with Nestle.  Anna Drew will be graduating with honors in less than two weeks and plans to attend pharmacy school within the next year. 

Trust me when I say I could go on forever about how incredible these two young women are--however, I decided I would leave it up to some others.  Here are some quotes from different people they've influenced in their time at Carolina, including best friends, roommates, sisters and littles:

Thea Dietrick

"Thea, I can't believe that we only met one time before you became my big. Over the past year and a half you have become my best friend, mentor, and have been there every time I needed you.  You have completely changed my life for the better, and I can't believe that you won't be here next semester.  I'll miss people looking at us like we're crazy during meals at the house when we make all of our weird voices and noises. I'm so proud of you and excited for the next chapter in your life--you're gonna do amazing things no matter where you are." -Madeleine Partain

Thea and Madeleine

"Thea, I don't know what I will do without you next semester. For the longest time I was in denial that you'd even leave, convincing everybody that you wouldn't be going back. It's crazy for me to think about the fact that I've really only known you for a little over a year now, but that year is filled with so many memories. I'll cherish the times you lifted me up when I needed it, celebrated good news and accomplishments together, and made my stomach ache with laughter. Even though I know my last semester at USC will be so different without you, I know that our friendship does not end now! I look forward to some upcoming 7 a.m. Skype calls with you as you finish up school in Hong Kong." -Lauren Austin

Thea and Lauren

Anna Drew Jackson

"We've joked before that in an alternate universe, we probably wouldn't be friends: ADJ and I are polar opposites.  But after we met a birthday party in the seventh grade, it's hard to imagine who I would be if I never knew her.  I've always been amazed at Anna Drew's ability to accomplish whatever she puts her mind to.  Of course, everyone is told they can do anything by parents, teachers, mentors, but typically people settle for less.  Well, ADJ's picking up all our slack and then some.  Blood drives, recruitment chair, internships, service trips, it's nuts.  I don't think I've ever heard her say, 'I don't think I can do this.'  Well, there may have been one or two times... but guess what?  She did it anyways.  Her passion and work ethic are on a different level than anyone I've ever met.  She's also funny and makes a mean batch of banana bread.  I'm so glad we don't live in an alternate universe, that we did meet at that birthday party seven years ago and that I've had the privilege to have such a beautiful and ferociously loyal friend." -Ellen Fox

Anna Drew and Ellen

"When I think about my friendship with Anna Drew, I think about how there is no one else more hardworking and more deserving of a beautiful future.  Her drive makes me want to work harder, and her constant ability to put me (and others) in a good mood makes me wish she was spending another semester here.  Whether she's conquering the blood drive, recruitment, or her never ending load of schoolwork, ADJ will be one to watch.  Keep the endless snapchats coming; you'll be my 'girlfriend' for life." -Emma Huggins

Anna Drew and Emma

As sad as it is to see you go, we couldn't be prouder to have you represent Tri Delta as you go off into the world and do amazing things.  We love you, Thea and ADJ!