When recruitment rolled around my freshman year, I had a million different thoughts running through my head. Is Greek life really for me? What about all those stereotypes; are they true? How does rush even work? As my second-year in my organization comes to an end, I find myself trying to imagine how different my life would be without it. All of the questions and confusion I once had suddenly disappeared shortly after joining, and I wouldn't look back. Although my college journey is about half way over (cue the tears), I've learned things being Greek I could've never been taught from a professor or in a lecture hall.
1. How to be a leader
Because responsibility and giving back is key, leadership is a learning experience in itself and worth the extra effort.
2. The importance of loving others
Because we all need a shoulder to cry on just as much we need to be one, too.
3. I've found my bridesmaids
Because they've been beside me through the heartbreaks and the tears, and on my wedding day, I don't want anyone else but them beside me once again.
4. I would have made an outstanding cheerleader
Because chanting and smiling non-stop at 8 a.m. during recruitment brings out the best (and worst) in us.
5. How blessed I am
Because volunteering in children's hospitals and raising money for them is life changing, humbling and inspiring to say the least.
6. How to parallel park in a hurry
Because when chapter or class starts in five minutes, we can thank our new-found skill and Greek Row for getting us there faster (even though we may not be between the lines).
7. I can hold a conversation with most anyone for way too long
Because surprisingly, you'll automatically understand what I mean after rush week.
8. Comfort zones are meant to be broken
Because meeting new people and late night adventures are a normal, quite often occurrence.
9. To live in the moment
Because life is too short and we all need to stop, smile and enjoy it a little more.
10. Friends in other sororities and fraternities are equally a blessing
Because we all need a variety of people in our lives to lean on and love, despite the letters.
11. When in doubt, call your sister
Because we need company on that long haul across campus, someone to call when it feels things are falling apart, or someone to bring us an emergency Cook Out milkshake when we're sick.
12. The power of prayer
Because when tragedy hits us, we come together, look to God and pray.
13. How to manage my time
Because when we have meetings, socials and volunteer events all during a test week, we somehow manage to do it all.
14. How to respect authority
Because it's an essential life skill, and this is just the beginning of it.
15. I don't want it to end
Because these four years go by way too fast.
You've heard it already, college is about going to class, pulling all-nighters and eventually earning that degree you've agonized over. This is all true, but it's also about finding yourself. Finding your interests and finding the things and people that make you happy while you're home away from home.
For me, Greek life did this and so much more. It's the family we chose, and it's the family we'll always be a part of no mater where our lives takes us, and for that I am forever grateful.
Individually unique. Together complete.
