Mia: My Adopted-RA, Mentor, and Friend - Sierra

I first met Mia Ritter-Whittle during SNIP, very briefly. We got to know each other a bit in Fall Quarter. But it wasn't until this quarter that we truly got to know each other, and I now consider her one of my closest friends. I admire and respect her for many reasons, like the fact that she's a bad-ass and woke indigenous woman. But one of the things I most appreciate about Mia is her wisdom and openness. I've had incredible revelations about how I view myself and the world through our various deep conversations. Sometimes, it feels like being honest with Mia allows me to be honest with myself. As a freshmen, having an older and wiser peer to talk through your thoughts, aspirations, and hardships is so valuable. But it is something truly wonderful when that relationship goes beyond mentor-mentee, and that person in turn trusts you enough to share their own thoughts, aspirations, and hardships. I am extremely grateful for you, Mia Ritter-Whittle. Thank you for being my big sister, my adopted RA, and my friend.