Ah, bid day. We all remember our first one, very well. Cheering, shouting, hugs and awkwardness -- so much awkwardness it was cringeworthy. Is this what the whole year is going to be like? Did I join the right one? Have I made a mistake?
Don't fret, former PNM, you're in the right place and there's not doubt about it. Bid day is awkward for everyone -- including actives. You don't know them, they don't know you; all you have to go on is the brief conversations you may have had with five percent of the members in the last week. Below, are some of the sensations you may have experienced on bid day but, be aware, they're natural and nothing to worry about!
Here's what's probably going through your head once you've donned your shirt.
1. My shirt, I just go my shirt!
2. It's so cool and it's for (insert desired sorority here).
3. I'm so excited. Oh, my gosh -- new best friends.
4. Look! It's Jane, from open house. Oh, my word, she's so awesome.
5. Sally, from my Pi Chi group, is here! This is heaven! This is fate. I was born a (name of sorority).
6. But, I don't know anyone else here.
7. Why is that one girl so gorgeous and why do I not have that charisma? I thought we were supposed to share similarities!
8. Oh. Similar values. Not similar traits. Got ya.
9. Um, halp, Who do I talk to?
10. THis girl claims she's my big, an angel from above.
11. Am I going to be judged, if I eat all of this food at once?
12. Everyone else is stuffing their face. Looks like I'm in the right place.
13. But, I still don't know anyone. I thought this was supposed to be easy.
14. Why isn't this easy?
15. Did I make a mistake? Am I in the right place?
16. They want to take pictures.
17. Where do I stand?
18. WHat do I do with my hands?
19. Sign. They have a hand sign. I have no idea how to do it. SOmeone, help, please.
20. This girl next to me deserves a trophy. Best friend, number one, has just been chosen.
21. Oh, thank heavens, my big is back and she brought friends. Yes, I am meeting people.
22. Why are they all so cool? When will I be cool?
23. Why do they know so much about me and I know nothing about them?
24. Awkward, so awkward. Did I just say the wrong thing?
25. Cake, there is cake. If I have food in my mouth, then it's acceptable not to talk!
26. Dear God, do not let me be the only one eating cake, right now.
27. Wait, who is this eating cake? Is she also a new member?
28. Did we just become best friends?
29. They like food. They all like food. Definitely in the right place.
Bottom line? The system works. Give it time, even though it's awkward at first, and you'll be loving your sisterhood more than anything!