Mr Brett Reardon

I joined Sigma Nu in the spring semester of 2009; however, I wouldn't have if it weren't for Brett Reardon. Brett saw the possibility that I was a Sigma Nu long before anyone else in the house. Though it took more than himself to convince the rest of the brothers and myself that I'd be a good fit, Brett found the right people to introduce me to so that the best decision of my life was made. I wouldn't give up being a Sigma Nu of the Epsilon Mu chapter for anything. It's been an incredible experience, one that couldn't be replaced. I credit much of this decision to Brett.

Though I had role models already inside the Sigma Nu house that I'd worked with or been friends with before rush, I was seeking a different type of role model during the rush process. Not being able to completely finish off rush week, I wasn't given a bid at first, but during the “open rush” period, Brett was sure to put my name on the table. He was my tour guide for the first house tour and from then on, I was set that he would be an incredible role model for myself. I still remember the call from Brett telling me the house had decided to give me an open bid. I knew right then and there that I wanted to accept the bid. In a house full of such incredible guys, Brett simply stood out as one of the greatest in my eyes.

When it came time to preference who we wanted as a “big”, or “father” as we call them, I knew that Brett was going to be my first choice. I chose 4 others that I liked and thought would be awesome, but I really wanted Brett because we'd become so close. Brett revealed that he was my “father” during a Freshman Skits practice, and I was thrilled! Since then, I have adopted a new name for him -- Bretto -- and he loves it! (Or so I like to think..) Brett was an integral part in that spring semester, as it was an extremely rough one for me. Though very rewarding as well, I struggled with many decisions and life events during that semester. Bretto spent the fall 2009 semester in Australia, but is now back, and I enjoy spending time in his room, even if it's just to watch our show. (It's okay, Pops - I won't say what it is so as not to embarrass you…)

Bretto, thanks for being such an incredible role model, inspiration, and listener for me. You know how badly I struggled with things, and I owe most of my sanity to you. You always knew when to calm me down and just tell me to “type my paper” and worry about the other things later. My grades suffered slightly, but I can't imagine how horrible they'd have been if it weren't for you. I look forward to spending some more evenings in your room just chatting about nothing of importance and pretending to make fun of you. You're the greatest, and no matter how much I tease you - I have the upmost respect for you. Thanks for everything!