1. Be yourself

This is probably the most important thing to keep in mind while rushing. The goal of rush is to end up in a house that suits you. You want to feel a sense of belonging and comfort in the sorority you choose. This feeling won't come if you aren't true yourself throughout the process. Follow your gut instincts.

2. Keep an open mind

I know it's tempting to want to Google the reputations of various sororities at your school, but the best advice I can give is this: don't.

Don't ask other girls about what each house is like or what to expect. Everyone's opinions are different and are often based on personal experiences. Each house has a unique feel and it's important to choose one that you like, not one that is considered "top-tier" on Greek Rank (please, don't pay attention to anything on Greek Rank). I personally had no preconceptions about any given sorority and it made the whole process so much easier. I wasn't worried about reputation or status, but rather which house was the right fit for me.

3. Don't sweat the small stuff

I'm a clumsy mess. During the first round of rush last year, I managed to trip up the stairs of one house, spill water all over myself, and knock over a table centerpiece. Contrary to what many may think, I did get asked back to all three of those houses. No one is perfect, and that's okay! Just apologize, laugh at yourself, and move on.

4. Jot down notes

It's easy to forget your initial thoughts about a house, especially when there are so many. Write down a few things on your phone or a notepad to help yourself remember how you felt about each sorority. This will help you narrow down your choices later.

5. Don't be afraid to ask questions

When you're talking to active members during each round, ask as many questions as you want. Their answers to your questions can help you find the house that's best for you. The girls you're talking to want to share as much as possible about their house, so don't be afraid to ask about living arrangements, dues, sisterhoods, etc.

6. No two sororities are the same

I know many of you may be wondering how the heck you're going to know which sorority is right for you, but trust me, you will. Each house has its own, unique personality that you feel almost instantly. Pay attention to the overall vibe and the conversations you have with the active members.

7. Get to know girls in your rush group

Regardless of whether or not you choose to actually join a sorority, rushing is a great way to meet people. You're all going through this process together, so you immediately have something in common. During breaks between houses, take the chance to get to know some of your fellow PNMs*. You never know who you could meet!

*PNM—Potential New Member

8. Talk to your Rho Gamma

Your Rho Gamma* is a valuable resource. She's there to help you find the house that suits you. If you're anything like me, it helps to talk things out before making a big decision. While you're not allowed to talk to other PNMs about your rushing experience, you can talk to your Rho Gamma. If you have questions, comments, or concerns, she's there to help.

*Rho Gamma—Recruitment counselors assigned to rush groups in order to help PNMs find a sorority.

9. Choose the sorority that's right for YOU

One of the reasons you're not allowed to talk to other PNMs about rush is to make sure no one is swayed by the opinions of others. Choosing a sorority is a personal decision, and at the end of the week, it's important to pick the one that suits you, not your friends. Besides, if you end up joining a sorority, you're a member for life.

10. It's okay if things don't go as planned

Greek life is not for everyone. It's okay to go through rush and decide at the end that you don't really want to join. It's okay to decide after the first day that you don't want to join a sorority. It's also okay if you get "dropped" from a house you really liked. It's important to remember that getting dropped is not anything against you personally. It happens to everyone.