Ruby & Erica: Stepping Outside Her Comfort Zone

When Ruby was 11 years old, she was matched with her first Big Sister through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country. Together, they found ways to make learning fun—whether they were working on schoolwork or participating in activities that incorporated a little bit of learning along the way.

For Ruby, those experiences were memorable not only because she was learning, but because she was learning alongside someone who cared about her.

When her first Big Sister eventually moved out of the BBBS-BSC service area, Ruby was matched with Erica. At first, meeting someone new was intimidating, but Erica came to Ruby’s home to meet her family, helping make those first few moments a little less awkward.

That first meeting opened the door to a friendship that would give Ruby opportunities to try new things, discover new interests, and gain a trusted person to turn to as she navigated the challenges of growing up.

One of the things Ruby appreciates most about her relationship with Erica is how naturally they spend time together. They might make crafts, try something they have both been wanting to do, or simply find an activity they can enjoy together. Erica has also helped Ruby become more active without making it feel like exercise—a welcome approach for someone who doesn't particularly enjoy working out.

“Spending time with someone that cares about me doing things we enjoy doing is amazing,” Ruby shared.

Through BBBS-BSC, Ruby and Erica have also shared experiences Ruby may not otherwise have had the opportunity to try. They went whitewater rafting together, and Ruby went skiing for the first time.

Skiing became one of Ruby’s favorite memories with Erica. Because Erica was an experienced skier, Ruby felt more comfortable trying something completely new. On one memorable day, they tackled a more challenging trail with plenty of trees. Ruby fell, and Erica hiked back up the trail to help her. Eventually, Ruby made it down a black diamond trail—and considered it a success.

Looking back, Ruby recognizes that some of her favorite experiences were the ones that initially made her nervous.

“Don’t be afraid to try new things,” Ruby said. “The most fun experiences were the ones that I was most nervous about.”

Her relationship with Erica has also provided something beyond new adventures: perspective.

As Ruby prepared for college, she and Erica had productive conversations about school, careers, and the future. Erica shared her own college experiences, answered Ruby’s questions about studying abroad and traveling, and helped Ruby understand that there isn't always a perfectly clear path forward.

Ruby learned that Erica’s career doesn't necessarily align directly with her college major—and that was reassuring. Hearing that Erica's path hadn't always been easy, while also seeing how things worked out, helped Ruby realize that she doesn't need to have everything figured out at this stage of her life.

Erica has been there throughout the college application process, asking for updates and offering encouragement along the way.

For Ruby, that support has made a lasting difference.

“Having someone you know who supports you to help work out the kinks of life” has helped her feel less worried about the future, she explained. Erica encouraged her to explore activities she might not have considered before, take things at her own pace, and look for things she genuinely enjoys.

Most importantly, Ruby knows that someone has been willing to make time for her.

As she leaves for college and begins this next chapter, Ruby carries those lessons—and the confidence that came from having someone beside her as she tried new things.

Her advice to other Bigs and Littles is simple: step outside your comfort zone. Having someone there to encourage you can make all the difference.

And when it comes to meeting someone new?

“It’s only as awkward as you make it…gotta fake it till you make it.”

Ruby plans to stay in touch with Erica while she's away at college and keep her updated on what comes next.

Because a match may change as a young person grows, but the impact of having someone in your corner can last far beyond the time spent together.