Ashley’s Tribute
Maya was my warm hug on a rainy day, my chosen big sister, confidante, and anchor at WashU.
From the moment I met Maya, I knew that I wanted her in my life forever. She has been there for me during my best and worst times, making WashU feel like a home. She welcomed me into her life with open arms and was the most loyal and loving friend. She taught me always to live life fully and be yourself unapologetically. I admire Maya as a big sister and strive to emulate her overwhelming joy, charisma, and compassion.
I met Maya after rushing the spring semester of my first year and joining Alpha Phi. Although I didn’t speak with Maya on our bid night, I vividly remember being told by many people that we would get along. Soon after, I bonded with Maya at a party, and one of the most beautiful friendships I have ever known began. We met up on campus the next day, had dinner together, and immediately clicked. We talked about the struggles of freshman year, laughed at each other's quirks, and after hours of hanging out, immediately decided that we MUST have breakfast the following day to continue talking. Maya introduced me to her friends, provided an immediate community in my newfound Alpha Phi circle, and ensured I always had a place to go. There was no question when I had to rank who I wanted to be my big sister in Alpha Phi.
Maya is truly the most compassionate and empathetic person I’ve ever met. During the week leading up to our Big/Little Reveal, she would go into my room and decorate my bed with gifts and treats. Every time my roommate let her into the room, Maya also gave her a gift. She never wanted anyone to feel excluded.
My friendship with Maya continued to flourish, and with her guidance and love, I began to feel at home at WashU. I looked up to her as my big sister, admiring her ability to be unapologetically herself, her zest for life, and her loyalty to others.
I felt scared and unsettled the summer before returning to WashU for my sophomore year. Maya immediately calmed my nerves by ensuring I knew she would always be there to support me and include me with her friends. Maya was the glue, always connecting new people and facilitating friendships. Her door was always open. Maya was the friend I turned to when I wanted to share good and bad news and who I turned to when I wanted to dance, laugh, sit, or cry. I knew that no matter what, Maya would understand. She was always the most supportive friend. Whenever I wanted to do something and didn’t want to be alone, I knew to call Maya. She always showed up for her friends no matter what.
Maya and I would talk about falling in love, our career aspirations, how we would achieve them, our families, and our gratitude for each other. Maya’s life was cut too short, but her impact on me will last forever. I am so honored that she was my big sister and will be a piece of me forever.
