When I was a freshman, I went through formal recruitment at Texas Woman’s University, not expecting to actually go through with Greek life at all. I never thought I would go Greek. I always thought it was financially out of reach for me. However, once I got my bid from Alpha Omicron Pi, I have not looked back. But, I have wondered what my life might look like now if I hadn’t gone through recruitment at all, like I had originally planned. I know that things would be different, but the more I think about it, the more I realize that rushing AOII has been one of the best decisions I have made so far.

If I hadn’t gone Greek, my time management skills would still be pretty awful. I wouldn’t know how to a balance a week with a chapter meeting Monday, project due Tuesday, recruitment workshop and a test Wednesday, a quiz Thursday, and an online discussion board due the Friday night of an overnight sisterhood event. Being in a Greek organization might make you busy, but it definitely helps you prioritize and get ahead on your schoolwork.

If I hadn’t gone Greek, I probably would not still be at the same university either. Although I loved my freshmen floormates, I still wanted to be closer to home. It’s not that I was too far either, just that college came as a surprise to me and I wasn’t sure if I was ready to continue getting my degree just yet. I was having doubts about my major and I don’t think I would have wanted to stay at TWU if I did not have my sisters around to encourage me to push through.

If I hadn’t gone Greek, I would not be as outspoken as I am now. AOII has helped me develop a sense of self and I have found my voice. I used to be a very passive person, barely ever voicing my opinion if it was going to start conflict or controversy. After holding so many offices in my sorority, I now have found my backbone and will stick up for myself when necessary. I try my best to voice my opinion in a manner that is not rude, but I will get my point across instead of allowing others to walk all over me. I am able to express myself and become a better friend and sister throughout my experiences in the sorority.

If I hadn’t gone Greek, I would not know the 69 amazing women that have changed not only my perspective on the world, but also shown me how a sisterhood should be. This chapter has been a blessing in my life, especially when we go through the rough times. I have seen my sisters rally around each other to support each other, even when it is not easy. I have learned how to better myself so that I can continue to work towards becoming my best self. I would not know my Big or my two Littles who have been major influences in my life. I would not have met some of my best friends, the ones who I can see being bridesmaids in my wedding. I would not have the close-knit community my sisters have welcomed me into. These women have consistently been there for me and there are no words to express how grateful I am for each and every one of them.

It is easy to judge Greek affiliated students due to the portrayal we have in the media, but Greek life is not exactly like that. Greek organizations foster scholarship, community, life skills and self-improvement. It’s not about being better than anyone else. It’s about improving yourself to become a better local and global citizen. Greek life isn’t about socials or pictures or the letters. It’s about connections, livelihood, self-reflection and everything in between. For me, my Greek organization has drastically changed me for the better, even though this is only my second year in. I am so thankful for the memories with the women a part this organization and I will continue to look forward to creating more throughout the rest of my college career.