When the new members start connecting with the older pledge classes, it is easy to get caught up in the small advices. We love to tell you where the best place to eat, where you can meet us at night, and whose family is the best. Some things we overlook, however, are the big pieces of advice.
As seniors, we all have advice to share. Now that recruitment is over and we are onto our last semester on campus, we find ourselves sitting around and thinking of all the memories we've had in our sororities. Here are some things that seniors should be telling the younger pledge classes, but we're having too much fun to share.
You have to make an effort to truly find sisterhood: As much as we scream “You’re the greatest ever” and “we love you already!” the bonds that bind us together will not grow if you do not make an effort. As much as you love eating dinner alone in the comfort of your bed, get up and be active. Go to dinner with girls from your pledge class. Let the older girls take you out to coffee and welcome you into their homes. Go to sisterhood events, philanthropy events, and anything else that can fit in your schedule. It pays off in the long run.
Find something you’re passionate about, and stick with it: This seems simple, right? NOT. College will pull you in every direction and will leave you with little time for yourself, but you absolutely have to stick with what you love. My housemates want to kill me for the amount of times I’ve said, “I don’t feel like an English major.” If I looked closely at the problem though, I am the one not finding time to read and write. Always find time to do what you’re passionate about.
Ask a lot of questions: LinkedIn has nothing on the networking system that your sorority (and Greek life) provides. Yet in order to see what is available to you, you have to ask questions. It’s amazing to see how a person can know somebody that has the exact job you want, or has been on a study abroad program you’re thinking of doing. Never be afraid to ask for help or advice!
Never be afraid to be bold: This is especially important during your first few months in your sorority. See that cute girl over there that looks like she is having fun? Go up and talk to her. She may end up being your best friend that you're terribly scared to say goodbye to after graduation. Never be afraid to take a chance and be social! It can never hurt you.
Learn to say no (Learn to compromise): I know—I am contradicting myself and sound like your sixth grade DARE officer, but it’s time college students truly learned to say no. In order to keep up with academics and the things you are passionate about, you’re going to have to stand your ground sometimes. You are here for academics; if you can’t go to 90’s night one week, you’ll survive.
Learn how others love: We all show our love, affection, and friendship in different ways. Some of your friends may show appreciation by giving you the best hugs in the world. Others will be the ones to tell you to "shove it and get dressed, we're going out!" You may be constantly be texting one friend and almost never text or call another. Not everyone shows their appreciation and love the same way, but it all works. Learn how your best friends show it, and love them back.
Always be yourself: This can be hard to do, especially when you are constantly changing. Seniors are completely different people than they were as freshmen, but remember to always let your light shine, and don't let anyone dull your sparkle!
