Throughout my whole college career, I always get the question “What house are you in?” I’m not sure why that is the first question I get when I meet people in college, but I do. I proceed to respond with “I’m not in a house,” and I get a saddened look with a response of “Oh.” This could easily be one of the most tiring conversations to have with people.

I feel that on some level I am disappointing them by not being affiliated with Greek Life, and I would like them to know that I am doing just fine.

In the Greek system, they are required to do community service and uphold good grades while still being involved in activities on campus as well as having jobs. These students are incredibly busy and even find time to go to bars and parties on week nights as well as weekends.

But so do I.

I hold myself to the same standards as Greek Life students do. My grades are great, I have a job, I am a part of multiple activities on campus, and somehow, I find time to have a social life. You will rarely find me going out on week nights, and most of the time, I am not even going out on weekends. By the end of the week, school and work has exhausted me to my limits, and all I want to do is relax.

My friend circle may not be as big as those affiliated with Greek life, but trust me when I say they are the best things that have happened to me. While I am not involved in Greek life, it has made me reach out in many different ways to make friends. I have to be social in my classes, and make sure I am involved in multiple activities to grow my circle.

I find myself working harder to become more involved. Community service and events aren’t scheduled for me, but instead, I need to plan my own things. I need to make sure I hold myself accountable to be involved in the community and to get good grades. I do not have someone watching over me to tell me that my grades are starting to go downhill.

I am not required to attend chapter every Monday night, I don’t get fined when I don’t show up to an event, I can go home to peace and quiet with my one other roommate, and I can meet people without being judged by a sorority’s title. My college life is pretty awesome and I am proud of what I have become regardless of my affiliation.

So next time I say I’m not in a house and you say “Oh, that’s okay,” you’re right, it is okay. I am happy! I have found my perfect niche in college and I hope you did too.

I am just like you… Without the Greek title.