For many colleges and universities, formal spring recruitment for Greek life has come to a close, and many organizations have gained many new faces that will someday become the leaders of their fraternities or sororities. You survived Bid Day, but now you’re probably thinking to yourself: “What did I get myself into?" "What’s next?” If these are the questions you’re asking yourself, you’re in luck.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate your way through the new-member process of fraternities and sororities alike:
1. Don't make Greek life the only thing you are involved with during your time in school.
There are so many ways that students can get involved, and everyone should take advantage of that. Between intramural sports, student government, student activity planning, and community service programs the possibilities are endless!
2. If your friends ended up accepting their bid into another organization respect their decisions and do not treat them any different.
3. We are all bad at names and if you don't remember someone's name just ask!
I'm sure Rebecca would prefer you asking what her name was than calling her Jessica for a week. Also making a "cheat sheet" through Facebook stalking is OK too!
4. Go with your gut during Big Little Week.
You will know the instant connection that you make with someone. A lot of potential Big brothers or sisters will make themselves available to you, but it's hard to judge who will be best for you. Big-Little relationships can be in many forms but usually they can be everything from best friend, mentor and counselor.
5. Make time for yourself.
Everyone will ask you to go on a lunch or coffee date, and sometimes you need to make time to relax by yourself. Also if you're going on all of these lunch dates, make sure you take care of yourself through healthy physical activities. Make sure that you also do not give up on hobbies or activities that you feel passionate about. Don't change what makes you who you are!
6. Acknowledge and accept that not everyone you meet will want to "go Greek."
Going Greek has been a great choice for many undergrads, but it's not for everyone. Many choose to become involved in other ways on campus, which is absolutely awesome. When recruiting, focus on the potential new members that know that they will positively benefit from the experience.
7. Remember to breathe!
At the end of the day, this is supposed to be fun, so if you start to get overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths.
8. If you’re confused about something, don’t be afraid to ask your new-member educator or an older, more experienced member.
Your sisters and new-member educator are there to help! Don’t be afraid to use your resources!
9. Remember, school still comes first.
You pay for your education and future. If you have to miss out on events or meetings for your studies, it should be acceptable.
10. Being in a sorority or fraternity is supposed to be fun.
So enjoy every minute of it! Between formals, chapter events, fundraising, and community service, there will be lots of memories and inside jokes to be made.
11. Going to socials with other organizations is a great way to create Greek unity, and you can meet some amazing people along the way.
It's great way to meet new people and and expand your inter-Greek friendships.
12. Make new friends and keep the old. One is silver and the other's gold!
Just because you just gained 50 new friends, doesn't mean you need to ditch your old ones.
