As a second year or older student, you've probably adjusted to Binghamton over the past year +. You might think you've discovered most things Bing has to offer you. Well, if you haven't at least considered greek life or attending rush week, you're missing out on something that could end up as one of the best decisions of your college career. Going through rush week is a great, non-binding way to check out all that greek life has to offer, and to determine whether or not joining a sorority is for you. Here are some reasons you should attend rush week this Fall:
1. A nice change of social scenery.
Maybe you wanted to take freshman year to settle into things socially. A lot of people do this, and then after they feel comfortable and secure in their friend groups, they want to branch out and meet new people. Joining a sorority is a great way to do this! It’s not a means of replacing your old friend group, just an awesome supplement to the friends you already have.
2. You can be involved as much or as little as you choose.
I think a lot of people are hesitant about joining a sorority because of the supposed time commitment. Of course, there are some mandatory events that all sisters have to go to, but that's usually once a week at most. I believe in the mantra, “You get out what you put in." But if some weeks you feel like staying in with your suitemates and watching a movie instead of going to that mixer, you totally can. It’s up to you!
3. To help you develop leadership skills.
There are so many leadership opportunities once you're part of a sorority. Seriously, there are more than I could have even imagined. Whether you're interested in an e-board or e-council position, or even just a mentoring or tutoring opportunity, a sorority can absolutely provide you with that. Speaking of tutoring…
4. A great way to keep doing well in school.
Every sorority has a scholarship chair that helps set the sisters up for academic success. Having trouble with that Orgo homework? Most scholarship chairs set up spreadsheets so each sister can know which sisters are willing to help tutor them on their desired subject. Whether it's weekly tutoring, a question on homework, or advice for a class, chances are an older sister has been there before and will be more than happy to help you out.
5. You’ll always have people to do stuff with.
Between your Greek friends and your non-Greek friends, you’ll always have someone to eat lunch with, go to the gym with, or order Domino's with (in that order).
6. Diversity.
One of the main reasons I joined a sorority was because I had a very homogenous high school experience, and I wanted a change. People often think of sororities as homogenous organizations, but honestly, I don’t think I would have nearly as diverse a range of friends now if it weren’t for joining Greek life. Consider stepping out of your comfort zone when choosing a sorority that's right for you. The most comfortable, familiar choice may not necessarily be the best choice.
7. You always have people to dance with.
ALWAYS. Maybe your freshman year friends don’t like to dance, and normally you’re okay with that. But sometimes, you just really want to get down. Whether it be at a party, down at State Street, or just an impromptu dance party on campus, your sisters will always be up to get down.
8. Proving people wrong about Greek life stereotypes.
To be honest, I never thought of myself as a typical “sorority girl,” but I soon I realized I was wrong. This isn't because I am a typical sorority girl, but because there’s no such thing as a typical sorority girl. Even girls who seem to match that stereotype on the surface always have more to them than meets the eye. Since joining a sorority, I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve gotten, “Oh, you don’t strike me as a ‘sorority girl’.” Yeah, that’s because I'm just a girl who decided to be part of an organization of amazing girls who inspire and support me.
9. An opportunity to be a part of something bigger than yourself.
I know this sounds cliché, but sororities and Greek life in general are an incredibly strong national force when it comes to giving back. Consider a sorority that matches and supports your values on a national as well as local level. While local chapters often have smaller scale charity events, each sorority supports a different charity on a national level. There are so many options, finding a sorority that backs a cause you support should be a piece of cake.
10. More closets to steal clothes from.
Need I say more?
11. To get a Big, and then become a Big.
I think one of the most special relationships in a sorority is the Big-Little relationship. It's your own little family within a family. Crafting and getting showered with gifts is great, but that's only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to getting a big or being a big. It’s about someone who will be there to help, mentor, and love you through whatever life throws at you. She is someone who protects and defends you, but isn’t afraid to give you a dose of reality when you need one. I don’t have a big sister, but I imagine this is exactly what having one feels like. Personally, I can’t wait to be the role model, best friend, and big sister to someone like my Big is to me.
12. Making friends who will be there for you for the rest of your life.
Whether you have this relationship with your current friends or not, can you ever have too many best friends for life? I think not.
Convinced? Great! For updates and Fall Rush info, follow Binghamton Panhellenic Council on Facebook!
