BBYO has given me friendships I’ll treasure forever. From New Member Weekend to CLTC, IC, and everything in between, the people I’ve met have shaped me into who I am today.

But here’s the hard truth: distance. Many of my closest friends live hour-long car rides or even flights away. With high school schedules, sports, and BBYO commitments, visiting each other isn’t always possible. When I found out I couldn’t attend my region’s Winter Convention this year, it really hit me how long it would be until I saw some of my friends again. Most likely not until IC (and yes, I’m already counting down the days).

In the meantime, here are some of my favorite ways to keep long-distance friendships alive until that next reunion hug:

1. Reach out and just say you miss them

It sounds simple, but it’s easy to forget. One of my closest CLTC friends lives across the country in Portland, Oregon, and I haven’t seen her since IC 2025. A quick “How was your day?” or “I miss you” text makes the distance feel smaller.

2. Do something together… but not together

This summer, most of my friends worked at our childhood camps, so we bonded over stories. We also watched the same shows. Love Island and My Life with the Walter Boys were our obsessions. After each episode, we shared our hot takes.

3. Schedule those calls

Yes, it can feel like setting up a business meeting, but once the call starts, it always lifts the mood and makes the distance feel a little easier.

4. Videos = Lifesavers

Send them those random, chaotic videos of your day to keep the friendship real. Even if it’s just you walking your dog or ranting about homework, it helps you feel connected.

5. Hang in there

Plan a trip if you can, but sometimes it’s about waiting it out. The best part of long-distance friendships is that reunions are so much sweeter. If I can survive the countdowns, you can too.

Long-distance friendships aren’t easy, but BBYO has taught me that the connections we make are worth every text, call, and countdown. IC can't come soon enough.