Recruitment is just around the corner, and you probably have dozens of questions. Before I went through I researched every tiny aspect of recruitment -- what to wear, what to say, how to act, the whole deal. It must have worked, considering I spent four wonderful years in my sorority.
I thought I would share with you the answer to the most commonly asked question about recruitment: What should I wear?
There are five essential things that you must have in your recruitment wardrobe.
1. A smile.
If you are frowning, sighing, rolling your eyes, or zoning out with your RBF, it can make an impact on your recruitment. Think about it, smiles are inviting. That's how you make new friends and good impressions. Recruitment is exciting you should be smiling!
2. The outfit that you are most confident in.
I know you are worried about being judged, I think that is natural to feel. The best way to combat that feeling is to wear something that makes you feel like you could rule the world. If they don't like you when you are most you, then they are not worth your time. Bonus is that you will be more relaxed when you like what you are wearing and that means you can focus more of your energy on the conversations you are having.
3. A positive outlook.
This will help you see thing more clearly about the houses. You don't get to see every house, meet every girl, or hear every song. That doesn't mean that the houses you saw are bad, the girls aren't worth your time, or the songs are dumb. It means the process works, and you are seeing the best fits for you. I know it can be a let down when you like a house and don't get invited back, but give the other houses a chance, they can be, and probably are, the home you have been looking for. When you stay positive the whole process is more rewarding for you.
4. A sense of humor.
Anything and everything is enjoyable when you have a sense of humor. Recruitment is stressful, but it is also exciting. When you have the ability to laugh stuff off then you will be less stressed. When you do that the whole process becomes a happy (almost) stress free one.
5. Comfortable shoes, or a change of shoes.
I know, everything else on the list wasn't actual clothing advice, but this is too important to forget. You will be walking, going up and down stairs, across patios, and be on many surfaces (wood, tile, carpet). It is important to put your best foot forward. Literally. If you are buying heels for recruitment, buy them at least three weeks in advance and walk in them as much as you can -- not only will this save you from blisters during recruitment, but it gives you a chance to learn how to walk in them. If you can't walk in heels, then wear flats. The only thing the girls in the houses will be thinking is how lucky you are to not be in heels. Trust me. I also recommend bringing a change of shoes to leave with your purse outside. The Rho Gams will watch over your stuff, and this will make it easier to get from house to house.
No matter what dress you decide to wear, or how you do your hair, what is really important is trusting your gut, and having a good time. While recruitment can be stressful, it is also one of the most incredible things you can do at college. I was nervous going into the process, and now as an alum I wish I was still doing recruitment.
Trust yourself, trust the system, and have an amazing time.
