The Greek system overall has a bad stigma surrounding it. Unfortunately, not many people from the outside can see the many benefits that it offers. Being a part of the Greek community on college campuses can be such a positive experience for it's members. Between making lifelong friendships and connections, to learning leadership skills and gaining a greater understanding of many core values, there are so many advantages to joining this large community. We may look like we just party hard, but we are so much more than that.
Through the Greek system, I’ve gained a large group of people that I can always count on. My sisterhood has taught me that no matter how lost or alone I may feel, I always have someone who will be there for me. Whether it’s because I need a girl’s night eating candy and watching Halloween movies, or if I need someone to help me with my math homework, I know that there’s at least one person I can always call. This group of girls that I call my sisters will always catch me when I fall, and will be more than willing to build me back up if I break.
I’ve learned that my academics are much more important than I ever thought they’d be. School has always come first, but it is definitely number one in Greek life as well. Many fraternities and sororities take pride in their overall GPAs and they expect their new members to meet those standards. If they see that you’re struggling to make the grades, they will do everything they can to help you pass.
Being a part of the Greek community has given me the opportunity to be more involved in my community. We’ve all heard sorority girls say it over and over again before: philanthropy. A lot of people on the outside seem to think that it isn’t an important part of the organizations, but in reality, it’s a huge part. A large portion of a sorority’s activities are for their philanthropies. Between fundraisers, giving donations, or physical labor, we are always doing something. I can say from personal experience that my sorority’s philanthropy has opened my eyes to serious issues that many people face and made a huge impact in my life. Philanthropies show the care and love that Greeks have for their communities, their campus, and the well-being of humanity in general.
One major thing that I have gained through being a part of the Greek community is seeing the importance of unity. No matter what letters you wear, we are all Greek. We all have a common understanding of the importance of our fraternities or sororities, and there is always a mutual respect for everyone in the community. We all care for our brothers and sisters, but we all still care for each other and do what we can to be there for each other.
