My Sister's College Graduation

It’s not every day that your sister graduates from her dream college, but it’s official - we have a UCLA grad in our midst! I know I speak for the rest of my family and her friends when I say that we are so proud of everything she has accomplished academically over the course of her life.

My sister has always made education a priority - she has dedicated countless hours, energy, and hard work towards school from a very young age. I like to think that some of her success is in small part due to my childhood obsession playing “school” where I forced her to be the student while I taught math on a little whiteboard and made her fill out fake homework assignments and quizzes :) But truth be told, while her success is a result of many factors, it’s mostly due to her ambition, intelligence, and resilience. She graduated from UCLA in just three years (no easy feat) and will begin her Masters program this fall - it’s safe to say that this girl is on fire!

But after all is said and done, it’s not my sister’s GPA, number of extracurriculars, or the years she was able to complete her degree that make me the most proud. What I’m most proud of is the person she has become - the inner and outer beauty she possesses; her startling wisdom and maturity; her earnest outlook on life; her authentic heart and soul; her quiet inner strength. I admire her for not being afraid to go after what she wants; for embracing obstacles rather than falling victim to them; for her fierce loyalty and compassion for those she loves; for the high bar she sets not only for herself but for others. Over the years I’ve seen her learn from mistakes, navigate difficult situations, and persevere through tough times, all while growing and evolving as a person. Not only do I adore my sister (always have, always will) but I truly admire who she is and am continually blown away by the beautiful woman she has become.

If there’s one thing I know, it’s that my sister deserves the world. She’s my rock, my joy, my inspiration. We are tied together by so many memories and experiences, but mostly by the deep-rooted bond we’ve shared since the day she was born. I’m excited to see what she continues to achieve, but more excited to see who she continues to become. I love you sister, and hope you know just how much you are adored. I am so beyond proud to call you my sister. Xoxo

Renee Pires