Greek life in college is always portrayed wrongfully in the media; not only does it bring awful headlines, but it's twisted into something terrible in movies and tv shows. I'm tired of people assuming things about me and my life when I say I'm a "sorority girl." I'm Greek and I'm proud.
Greek life isn't partying, drugs, alcohol and bad decisions. Greek life is a home to individuals longing for something bigger than themselves. It's an organization that brings attention and raises millions of dollars for charities and organizations all over. It's a lifelong commitment with incredible, long lasting friends.
First and foremost, I don't pay for my friends. If I wanted to pay for my friends, then I wouldn't have any. I don't have time or money to pay people to hang out with me. For all you non-Greeks, my dues get broken down into multiple categories and saved for future needs. My dues pay for my sorority house, philanthropy events, formal, conventions... just to name a few. Obviously, my sisters are my friends, but I have non-Greek friends that I shockingly don't have to pay for. (Side Note: Sororities are not as expensive as people think.)
Just because Greeks are portrayed to party their brains out, doesn't mean I do. I spent most of my days and nights in the library. I missed mixers, sisterhood events, chapter and other functions to make sure my school work was completed. I'm here to get an education; my sorority is here to help support that. My organization has a strict scholarship plan and GPA requirement to make sure our studies come first.
On top of that, Greek life supports numerous charities and organizations. We bring awareness and raise millions of dollars for the organizations we support. Our philanthropies hold a special place in our hearts. We have personal connections and life experiences that tie us to them. We've watched our work brighten the days of those affected. We've watched the money we raised go towards research, new equipment, new buildings and better futures. Philanthropy isn't something we support for four years; it's something that we support for a lifetime.
Although it is a cliché, my organization is my home away from home. I know I have at least a hundred people I could call if my car breaks down on the side of the road. If I ever need anything, from a shoulder to cry on to a lunch date, then I could call any one of them. Some of my best friends have come through this organization.
I could go on for hours about my love for my sorority. I wear my letter with pride; I earned them.
