California Epsilon Grayson Hogdkiss made the scary decision to attend school miles from her hometown of Chicago, Illinois. Coming from the Midwest and leaving close high school friends behind, Grayson was afraid it would be difficult to make these same connections at San Diego State University.

As a sophomore, Grayson attended the 2015 Convention in her hometown of Chicago to take part in Emerging Leaders workshops. During their stay at the Hilton Chicago she was lucky enough to have outgoing Chapter President Lindsey Jones as her roommate. “Spending a lot of time [with Lindsey] allowed us to get closer and she gave me a lot of helpful advice like, ‘get close and make big friendships.’”

This advice resonated with Grayson. Through Pi Beta Phi, Grayson has begun to develop close relationships with many of her sisters.

Grayson is close to her Big, Sarah Hood, who helped her fall in love with Pi Phi. “She was excited for each event and wrote me notes to let me know she was thinking of me. She made me feel loved, like a Big should.” This encouraged Grayson to attend as many events as possible and to start making fun memories with her sisters.

Another way that she has gotten close to her sisters is by moving into the chapter house, where Friday brunch is sacred to the California Epsilon women. Plenty of time is spent laughing in the dining room enjoying Chef Martin’s French toast, English muffin sandwiches, mini cinnamon rolls — what a treat as he always switches things up!

Grayson’s determination to make big friendships, cheerful attitude and willingness to support her sisters are reasons why she is an emerging leader for her chapter. If you’re ever San Diego, stop by the chapter house where you will probably catch her singing a Justin Bieber tune and performing synchronized dances with her sisters.