As high school seniors head toward college to take their next step in life, their younger siblings often feel a sense of emptiness or sadness, sometimes even anxiety. It creates confusion, and it can be hard to understand why an older brother or sister is suddenly gone from home. For many, it’s a feeling of both change and loss, but it’s important to understand that this change is a natural part of growing up. 

In an interview with The Wolf, TuHS sophomore Giselle Gates and newspaper alumna Karys Gates reflected on how it felt when Karys left for college and what it’s been like being apart.

How did it make you feel when your siblings left for college?

Giselle: When they left, it was really hard because it made me realize I couldn’t go to them for advice or share exciting news as easily as I had before. 

How long did it take to feel normal again? How did you handle this situation?

Giselle: It took a while to get used to, but hearing about how much fun they are having in their sorority and traveling with sports teams makes me not only happy for them but makes me excited for college life, too. Talking over text and social media helped us form a new way of interacting. 

How has it been living away from home and away from your siblings?

Karys: Moving out of the home that I had lived in for my whole life felt very weird. It’s been so different living away from my siblings and not being able to just walk a few feet and ask a question or talk about random things going on in our lives.

Did your relationship with your siblings change after you moved out?

Karys: My relationship with my siblings has not changed a whole lot. I am fortunate enough to live close to them, so I do see them more than I thought I would, but texting and FaceTiming have made moving away a lot easier.

The transition can be tough, but it’s a natural part of growing up, and remember, your siblings are still there for you, just in a different way.