The summer is slowly coming to an end. All over the country freshmen will be moving into their tiny dorm rooms with their new roommates. The end of summer means the beginning of classes, but for Greek life everywhere, it also means new members. During both the fall and spring semesters, sororities and fraternities will be expanding.
There is a lot of excitement that surrounds the recruitment process. We’re getting new members, soon-to-be sisters who will add to the chapter and help it grow. New littles and future presidents will be walking into those rooms, which is both exciting and nerve-racking.
After spending two years in a sorority, I have some advice for future sisters.
1. Never underestimate the amount of work.
Being in a sorority means working hard. On the outside, it appears to be all lettered shirts, Greek Week events, and fundraisers, but it is much more than that. There are long nights and endless hours of planning that goes into everything we do. You’ll be stressed and it will test your patience, but it will be worth it. The end result is always rewarding.
2. There’s no such thing as too much effort.
In my chapter, we often say that a sorority can only give back what you put into it. There has never been a more true statement. If you want the Greek life experience that members brag about, you need to become involved. That is the only way to grow and make a difference within the chapter. There have been several sisters who have gone before you. Make them proud by doing your part. Sign up for committees, run for an executive position, share your ideas, and participate as much as possible. It will make the biggest difference in your college experience.
3. Don’t get overwhelmed.
When you sign your bid on Bid Day, you’re surrounded by screaming girls. Each of them are hugging you and yelling about how happy they are. It can definitely be overwhelming, but know that they’re only excited to watch you grow and see how being part of the chapter changes you. You may feel strange because you don’t have this passion or love for the sorority that they do, but it will come. You won’t be bleeding your sorority’s colors overnight, but eventually, you’ll become just as passionate as the sisters cheering on Bid Day. I promise that by the next recruitment, you’ll be right there with them.
4. Learn from your experience.
A sorority teaches you many things. You’ll learn time management, team work, maturity, selflessness, and leadership skills. Be open to these new experiences and hold onto the lessons that you’re given. Everything you learn will be useful later on in life when you’re a professional in the real world.
5. Enjoy every second of it.
Your time as a collegiate member will go by in the blink of an eye. Make the most of it. Attend fundraisers, participate in Greek Week, hang out with your sisters, and be the best sister you can be. You’ll make some of your favorite memories and laugh the hardest with your sisters, don’t waste a moment.
A sorority will change you for the better. Your reasons for joining and your reasons for staying will change, but they’ll only improve. Always put your best self forward, make the most of your experience, and you’ll never regret a single second.
