When I first entered college, I had the misconceptions, too. Based on movies like "The House Bunny" and "Neighbors," I thought I knew everything there was to know about Greek life. And more importantly, I knew it wasn't for me. I wasn't the thin, supermodel-like bleach blonde. I didn't party every weekend, sleep around with frat guys or wear Lululemon to class every day. I wanted to be an individual - not forced to abide by rules or standards set for me.
Now that I'm a member of the Greek community, I hate these stereotypes. I hate that when I tell people I'm a member of a sorority, they automatically create this image in their head of me because I associate with Greek life. I hate that their only image of us stems from unrealistic portrayals in movies and television shows and from the bad reputation created by a select few members from across the country. Because, even though I've only been a member for one month, I can guarantee you these stereotypes are far from true. The behaviors and actions of those in chapters across the country who destroy the image of Greek life are definitely not in the majority.
I read a quote once that said, "from the outside looking in, you can never understand it. From the inside looking out, you can never explain it." And I don't think there's a better way to describe what it really means to be a sister. Greek life was nothing like I expected, but it was everything I needed.
Because over the past weeks, I have grown closer with women from my chapter than I have with other peers and friends I have known for almost two years at college. I've been exposed to the many different responsibilities involved in the chapter such as academic minimum requirements, philanthropy events and many other functions designed to serve others and promote personal growth.
It also really fosters an environment for self-reflection and self-awareness. By joining a Greek organization, you're no longer just representing yourself, but you're representing your organization as well. Your actions reflect upon the other members of your chapter.
My new membership director always says, "You're always wearing your letters," and you should learn to conduct yourself as such. No matter the occasion - whether it's a party, social event or a spring break vacation, you should always present yourself as if you're at an event representing your chapter. Even though it may not be a chapter-sponsored event, even though you may not be wearing your letters on your clothing, if something devastating happens, you'll be associated with the Greek organization. Every achievement and mistake will reflect back on the sorority, no matter how minuscule or significant. You're in something bigger than yourself, and you start to think about how your actions are affecting those around you.
And since I joined a sorority on my campus, my grades have improved. I have a much better understanding of time management. I have a more consistent studying and sleep schedule. I'm actually motivated to succeed because I know my actions are affecting those I care about most.
So yes. I do like wearing my letters, and I wear them proudly. I'm always excited about sisterhood events, fraternity exchanges and essentially any event the sorority hosts. Yes, some of my sisters are dating frat brothers and go to the bars on the weekends. And some of us do enjoy watching romantic comedies and "The Bachelor."
But we're much more than that.
We have study nights every Wednesday. We have required philanthropy events. We have educational seminars centered around a variety of issues including sexual harassment and hazing. We're taught to be professional, respectful, courteous, honorable, strong and powerful women. We're taught to pursue everything in life with full force and a full heart. We're taught the power of our voice, the power of ourselves.
Maybe we are engrossed and obsessed in our Greek organizations, but not for all of the reasons non-Greek members might think. Our reasons for joining and the reasons for staying are entirely different. We're so much more than the surface-level image.
