I never saw myself as a "sorority girl." I didn't have anything against these women; I just didn't believe I belonged amongst their ranks. Boy, was I wrong. I only rushed when a friend wanted me to join her, and I will never be able to thank her for the opportunity she has given me. I am a proud sister of Sima Sigma Sigma, and I finally understand what a sorority is all about: love. Do you know what it's not about?

1) Hazing

I have never been hazed. Not once. When I was a new member (had not yet been initiated) I wasn't allowed to drive around initiated sisters - as that could be considered chauffeuring. I never saw a single paddle. My fantastic Big included a really cute coat rack oar in my Big/Little gifts, but that's really the closest you're going to get to a paddle in the Sigma house.

2) No Individuality

Before I rushed I was warned not to join a sorority: "Why would you want to hang out with the same cookie-cutter people all day? You can't grow as a person if you spend all your time with 50 copies of yourself." My sisters and I could not be any more different. Do we have similar interests? Of course. But, we are far from copies of one another. And, they help me grow everyday.

3) Buying your Friends

I did not purchase my friends. Do I pay monthly dues? Yes. But that money goes to the upkeep of the house, t-shirts, food, and other things that benefit me - and my friends - daily.

4) Boys and Alcohol

There is not a drop of alcohol in my house, and boys are only allowed in the house during visiting hours - even then they can only be in the foyer and downstairs (away from the bedrooms). These are guidelines outlined by our National Committee, and we respect them. Does that mean that sisters that are 21 aren't allowed to drink? Of course not, but they are asked to not do it in their letters.

5) Intelligence (or lack thereof)

My sisters are some of the smartest people I know. Do we occasionally struggle with our Latin homework? Daily. But, we have to maintain our grades to stay in good standing with the chapter. I didn't come to college to marry a doctor; I came so I could become one.

I am sure there are many other clichés about my sisters and I, and we might fit some of them. But, I promise you, we are so much more than the stereotype you have inside your head. Our values are wisdom, power, faith, love, and hope, and we uphold them everyday of our lives.

Sigma Love And Mine