When most people think of formal recruitment or sorority life, they typically think of enormous colleges with large chapters to accompany them. My school has only three Panhellenic chapters and two fraternities. My Greek brothers and sisters make up a population of about 250; compare that to a large state school that could reach 8,000 people! Now this article is not at all trying to diminish large schools’ Greek life, but show that small schools have their perks too!
As a freshman coming from a large family of 50+ cousins, I was hoping to find a home away from home and, of course, a second family for while I am away. Seeing that my chapter is actually smaller than my biological family, I knew that I found my fit. So here are a few reasons why:
1. My recruitment
Formal recruitment into my chapter was a lot different than how large schools may recruit. I had only two event nights followed by preference and then Bid Day. There was no visiting houses or skit nights. At least for me, this helped the whole process seem a lot less intimidating. On each night, I really felt like I got to create bonds and get to know my future sisters. I never felt like a number; I felt like a woman that was truly wanted for who I am. On Bid Day, I ran into the arms of 33 women and was flooded with dozens of Facebook posts from girls I talked to that day that were welcoming me into their sisterhood.
2. My opportunities
During elections to hold positions in my chapter, almost every girl that wanted a position has the opportunity to. This helps us feel that we are really contributing to the sorority. And since we all know each other so well, we were able to elect women who we truly thought fit that position. Not only does my sorority support leadership within the chapter, but we are involved in many other organizations on campus. Seeing that us Greeks make up a good majority of our school student senate, it is clear that we are always looking for opportunities in which our leadership skills can shine.
3. My campus
Since my campus is so small, Greek life has a great presence here. Whenever I walk to class I run into brothers or sisters. And a simple “hello” or “how’s your day going” can turn a long school day into a great one.
4. My sisterhood
In a small sorority, I get to know each and every one of my sisters. I don’t just know their names; I know their major, hometown, and at least something interesting or a funny story about them. Especially in my pledge class alone, I know that if I ever needed anything: a date to the main dining room, a study buddy, or even a shoulder to cry on—I can ask anyone and I’ll have a sister there at my side.
As fun as traveling to another state for formal or having multiple friend groups to hang out with sounds, I would not trade my little family for anything in the world.
