YASHASVI KATHOTIA

She has always been my biggest role model & inspiration. She went from changing my diapers to making me a “fountain” ponytail, to dressing me up for prom. She is my sister, my best friend, my mom (even grandmom) all rolled into 1 bundle of joy!

She laughs with me in our happiest moments & cuddles me through the darkest ones- as the guiding light for my future. Her brilliance & ambition motivates everyone around her to be the best version of themselves. 4 years ago today, she planned out my future on a paper. And along every step of the journey to achieve those goals -from reading my essays & editing speeches till 2am to motivational pep-talks- she makes me believe in myself even when I gave up.

She fit-in, yet stood out, succeeding in Brown & Duke, amongst her many (8) schools/colleges. She is one of the most intellectual people I know. Her expertise ranges from psychology, computer science, religion, stats, art & probably even a PhD in how to handle a dramatic teenage girl. There is nothing that I can’t tell her - no one gets me like she does. I know another 100 lucky people who would say the same thing. She is so perceptive & understands everyone, w/o being judgemental. She patiently listens to & analyses every problem to suggest the perfect solution!

I need her guidance about every decision- shopping, boys, acads & life. No matter what the news -good/bad, personal/academic, I always need to tell her first. I know that she is the perfect combination of a responsible well-wisher, yet super fun & goofy. All of my best memories are with her -all our vacations, shifting homes together, & trashing the kitchen. She does everything she can to make my first experiences special, from my first steps to my first drink, she has (quite literally) held me through it all.

She has always had a childish streak, like standing on a table & slapping boys who refused to hit her bc she was a girl (while we cheered her on).

Yet, she has maturely braved through the most difficult situations & emerged stronger than ever.

We‘re so proud of you & in awe of your unapologetic confidence. You’re the best thing that has ever happened to me. I love you❤️

Written by Preksha Jain