Carmen’s Tribute

I met Maya during the spring semester of my freshman year, right after joining Alpha Phi. I was struggling with my experience at WashU and was apprehensive about joining a sorority. However, that first ivy link event with Maya eased my worries. Although Maya was a year older, she quickly became a big sister to me. Her presence was unlike anyone I had ever encountered at WashU or in the real world. Describing Maya merely as kind-hearted, free-spirited, loyal, and intelligent doesn't do justice to the amazing person she was. She had a unique light that filled any room she entered. Maya simply had "it."

During that first semester, I admired Maya from afar, knowing I could always count on her for kindness and zero judgment. I found comfort sitting with her at chapter meetings, as she understood how much I dreaded attending those events alone.

It wasn't until my sophomore spring semester that Maya and I truly bonded. Despite sitting together in class and seeing each other almost every day, our friendship flourished outside those rooms. Maya cared deeply for those she loved, and they loved her in return.

I vividly remember when the new Alpha Phi class joined us for a pre-party at Maya's apartment. I confided in her that I planned to leave early because I didn't want to walk into the party alone. Maya immediately reassured me that she would be by my side, and she was right. That night turned out to be one of my best memories at WashU.

Maya never judged me. She allowed me to be myself and supported me through many hardships that semester. Maya Rae Anapolsky was truly a one-in-a-million friend and person. Her spirit and kindness touched everyone she met, and her memory will always hold a special place in my heart.