Joining a sorority; I've heard probably all the hate in the book. From "that's so cliche," to "so you're paying for your friends." Nevertheless, I found joining a sorority to be one of the best decisions I ever made. In an attempt to shed a different light on the subject, here are 5 unexpected ways being in a sorority affected me.
1. It made me get out of my comfort zone.
As a generally shy person, I never really thought of myself as a sorority girl. Going through recruitment, learning to talk about my accomplishments, and learning to put myself out there truly helped me open up to other people. I may not be bubbly, but I definitely feel more comfortable around people now.
2. I met people I would have never met otherwise.
Not everyone in a sorority is the same. I have been given the privilege to meet over 170 young women who are passionate about doing different things with their lives. They are all inspiring. From artists and dancers, to finance and biology majors, I have met a versatile group of girls that serve as encouragement and motivation for me every day. The drive and love they put into their passions only makes me want to learn more and know more about everything.
3. I am able to better serve my community.
Philanthropy is a big part of sorority and fraternity life. This was one of the main reasons I rushed a sorority. Joining a sorority gave me the ability to get involved more and show my passion for helping others. I am thankful that in any given week, I can find myself helping out and serving my community at least once or twice, whether I am running a tabling event or simply stopping by and participating. It gives a sense of pride knowing that philanthropy plays a big role in your life.
4. I am able to get involved at my school.
Rutgers is a big school; it's easy to get lost in the shuffle, especially for a commuter like myself. A sorority gave me a place at Rutgers. It gave me a community of friends who I could connect to and confide in. I finally felt a connection to my school. I now not only have friends in my sorority, but also in others, as well as people I have met at various events. Greek life has given me friends on campus, I hardly ever walk between classes without stopping to talk to someone. I always have at least one friend in class. I never have to eat lunch alone anymore. I now consider Rutgers my home, all because I joined a sorority.
5. I have grown as a person.
This may seem like a cliche statement. I was only initiated this semester; how could I make such a large assertion? Well all I can say is that I see myself as a different person now. I see myself holding open doors and helping professors. I see myself giving my time to others, respecting myself more. I see myself doing better in school and taking on more responsibilities. I see myself motivated and passionate. Overall, being in a sorority has helped me to grow up.
