In celebration of going back to Michigan State in a couple weeks, and that formal recruitment is upon us, I wanted to share my story of how I decided to join Greek life. I want to share my experience for others because there are people out there that are apprehensive. Greek life can be misunderstood because not everyone knows what it's like. It's not for everyone of course, but it has made a positive, tremendous impact on my college experience.

Going into college, I never thought of myself as a sorority girl. I thought I wouldn't fit in, and that the drama that can come with a group of girls would be too much to handle. Older friends of mine would tell me that I should at least give it a chance because it gave them so much happiness. Since I was very opposed to joining at first, I didn't consider signing up for fall recruitment.

That all changed when I saw all the girls getting their bids, sporting their letters, and posting pictures of their semi-formals, hayrides, and initiations. My first semester was a big adjustment, and my academics were giving me anxiety. I needed an outlet of some kind, and I wanted to meet more people. The program I was in felt suffocating and cut-throat, and I needed space.

The second semester came along, and I sat down in chemistry class not knowing a single soul. A girl sat next to me, Genevieve, and we became friends right away. As the weeks went by, we talked and got to know each other more and more. One day, Genevieve came into class with a sweatshirt with the letters of Alpha Omicron Pi. I had asked if they were doing spring recruitment, and to my surprise, they were that week. I took the chance and went.

From then on, Alpha Omicron Pi has been my home away from home. I couldn't be more fortunate to be part of a great group of young women. They all have different stories, but unite together. They inspire, empower, and embrace one another. We give back to the community through fundraising for our philanthropy for arthritis. Every sorority sister has your back, and is there if you need to talk. Whether you're best friends or not, everyone is there for one another.

Joining Alpha Omicron Pi has taught me that it's okay to let your hair down every once in a while. I became more self-confident, made new friends, and got to meet so many people. I felt less insecure because it didn't matter if I acted silly or ridiculous. I have people that love me for me, and encourage me to follow my dreams.

If I hadn't gone through recruitment and became a sister of Alpha Omicron Pi, I wouldn't know how important it is to take a step back and celebrate your victories. I have been given responsibility and an opportunity for leadership and I have learned to manage my time wisely. There are amazing people that I wouldn't have met if it weren't for Alpha Omicron Pi.

Alpha Omicron Pi helped me become the person that I was destined to be. It has made me strong, independent, and caring. I have turned from a complete introvert, to a more outgoing social butterfly. My sorority has helped me grow up, and put things into perspective.

Every sorority is different, but there is a place for everyone. I wasn't so sure about going Greek, but it was the best decision that I ever made. The way to know that you're in the right place is if you feel at home. Your heart will help you pick where you belong. The best thing you can do during recruitment is be yourself, and let the sorority that sees you for you pick you.

College can be a huge, crazy place. Being in a sorority can help you feel less stressed. You can be your own person and still be in a sorority. Your college experience is what you make of it. My advice is to do what makes you happy. Study what you love, and surround yourself with people that you love. Whether it's through Greek life or not, you will find your people and your place, I promise.