As I was packing my bags and heading off to college this past fall, I had never expected this year would be such a pivotal one for me. I knew that this would be the start of the rest of my life and I was ready for it. However, I never expected a group of 120 girls would make such a drastic impact on my life.
When I made the decision to go Greek, I did it for the experience of recruitment and to see what all the talk was about. When all was said and done, I had found my home and I am forever thankful.
Often, we underestimate the full extent of what Greek life is. It’s not just parties and social standing. It’s finding a place where, despite all odds, you fit in. It’s striving to build a better version of yourself, whoever that may be.
To the girls who invited me in with open arms and stood by me this year, thank you.
Thank you for helping me to better my womanhood.
There is something to be said for being surrounded by role models who push you to improve yourself. Not only have I drastically improved my academic standing this year, but my character has improved tremendously. Being a part of something that is so wonderful has made me strive to embody all of the characteristics that we represent. For that, I am proud.
Thank you for teaching me my voice matters.
In a college campus full of thousands of people, a freshman as myself often times gets overlooked. Our opinions and thoughts get tossed under the rug and labeled as unimportant. It’s because of these women who promote both chapter and individual growth that I am even able to write this article right now. I am able to share my words with the world because I have full confidence that what I have to say deserves to be heard.
Thank you for allowing me to make mistakes.
College is four years in which I will transform from a teenager into a young adult. During that time, I am sure to make mistakes. Knowing that despite those mistakes I will still be loved is so important.
Thank you for introducing me to some of my very best friends.
It’s funny how well you click with some people right away. It's as if you were meant to be friends all these years but never had the opportunity. I have enough memories in one year to last me a lifetime and the fact that I have three more years to do the same thing is an overwhelming and heartwarming feeling. Looking back at this year, I can’t imagine making half of the memories I made without my sorority sisters by my side.
Although I am thankful for all of these things, most importantly I am thankful for being accepted for who I am.
