Before rushing into my sorority, I had little knowledge on what to expect. I had only seen what went on in the movies. For example a lot of parties, drinking and boys. If I'm being completely honest here, I decided to join a sorority because of Legally Blonde. I loved how Elle Woods had a huge support of sisters behind her and ton of friends to go to when she needed them.
When I received my bid on bid day, I was a freshman who knew very little about what I was getting myself into. Fortunately for me, I would not change anything for the world. Joining a sorority has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. People constantly ask me what being in a sorority is all about (and then of course they make jokes about keg stands and fraternity parties). They will never have any real idea unless they rush themselves but I always say how I've become a better person because of it.
Here are some reasons why:
1) TEACHES YOU HOW TO BECOME YOURSELF
A large portion of becoming a part of such a wonderful organization is learning to love yourself for who you are. There are so many different types of girls who come from all over wanting different things than you do. We all have different personalities, wants, needs, and backgrounds. One of the best possible things is being able to be who you want to be with your sisters. There is no judgement and everybody gets the chance to show who they are. Your sisters love you for whoever you are.
2) SCHOOL ORIENTATED
One of my favorite things about being in a sorority is the amount of importance they put on your school. Many sororities have GPA requirements in order to maintain in good standing. There are also library hours where you can go to study and do homework with your sisters. They reward you when you succeed which makes you strive to do better and better. You also get to take classes with sisters which is better for when you're studying and doing homework. My sorority has made me realize how important it is to get good grades and has opened doors for scholarships.
3) LEADERSHIP SKILLS
There are chances that you have to become involved in your sororities executive board. You can hold positions like president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, spirit chair, and so many more. Within each position you are required to complete tasks for your position that help the members and the sorority. You are given the opportunity to lead a large amount of people, meet deadlines, and report to higher positions.
4) SOCIAL SKILLS
Even though I was and still am extremely outgoing and talkative, I have learned how to better communicate with people. I have also learned to speak on a more professional level. For some people, the shy ones, it helps them to become more outgoing and not as shy or quiet. We learn to talk with people we don't really know for periods of time (recruitment) which helps social skills.
5) RESPONSIBILITY AND TIME MANAGEMENT
I have learned so much responsibility and time management. You are required to go to certain events which could mean a busy week for you especially with school work. I've learned how to stay organized by time managing my homework and my sorority events with the use of a planner (shoutout to Lilly Pulitzer). I've become more responsible by taking action when I know a sister needs help.
6) LIFE-LONG FRIENDS
To me, the life-long friends are the most promising thing that the sorority has given me. By surrounding myself with good people who love me for who I am and support me, I've become a happier and more motivated person. Sisters help you learn the good side and bad side of yourself by helping you improve on the good. I will forever be grateful for the support system I've been granted with.
7) GETS YOU INVOLVED WITHIN THE COMMUNITY
My sororities philanthropy has given me the opportunity to get involved with members of the community. I'm able to see how I am helping out first hand which makes me more motivated to continue helping. It also allows you to network and meet new people that could possibly help you and your career path in the future.
Joining a sorority has been the best decision I have ever made. It may be a lot of work sometimes (because I'm always busy) but it has made me a better person. It has shaped me to the person I am now and will shape me into the person I will become. I am forever grateful with what my sorority has taught me. It's true what they say, 'It's not just four years, it's a lifetime'.
