Sorority recruitment might seem like all fun and smiles on the television, but be not mistaken.

It is one of the most tiring and stressful times of your freshman year. Having gone through the process on the potential new member side (PNM), the sorority woman side, and the Recruitment Counselor side, I can tell you that it is nerve wracking for not just you going through it, but the women in the chapter too! We want you to love us, just as much as you want us to love you. With that said, here are some tips on things to have with you throughout the week that might make recruitment a little less stressful and a little more enjoyable.

Bring a bag with you! All Week!

This bag shall include:

1. Tampons

I cannot stress this enough. You DO NOT want to be stranded before an event with your cute Lilly dress on starting your period and not be prepared. Trust me, with all these women together at once, you will get it whether you are expecting it or not.

2. DEODORANT

Please from everyone involved. Don''t forget this item. Nothing is worse that going in for that awkward side hug in a sorority house and not having a clean scent to you. First impressions are lasting ones, so don't smell like B.O. With that said, it gets super hot out during recruitment (especially in the South) and you get more sweaty when you are nervous, so even if you don't normally get sweaty, you will. I promise.

3. Mints

Please, oh, please do not go into a chapter with stinky breath.Coming from a retired Pi Chi, I would rather you spit your nasty chewed gum into my hand to ensure you are fresh-breath ready than have you come out smelling like you just ate a raw onion. Be mindful though. If you do have a piece of gum, spit it out!

4. Notebook and pencil

I know it seems like you have it all figured out, but I am serious when I tell you that by the second half of the day, they will all start becoming the same. Take notes that you can visit back to when you're putting in your preferences. Things like "the woman with black hair talked to me" isn't helpful. Be descriptive, so that you know what you are referring to when you go back into your notes.

5. Hair Brush/accessories

When the humidity takes hold of your once beautifully, tamed hair, you will want to freshen up. Bring a few of your must have hair styling accessories and tools, so that during a break you can go and tame the mane. Sometimes it rains, and when it does, you will want to have your brush to fix up a little.

6. Make-up

I always say keep it natural and be yourself, so that the women really get to know you for you. But with that said, look polished. Whether that be with a lot of make-up or a little, don't be one extreme or the other. In simpler terms, don't look like you rolled out of bed, but don't look like you are getting ready for a Kesha concert. Back to the sweating, you will want to have the occasional touch up throughout the day. But beware: check your teeth if you wear lipstick before you go in.

7. BAND AIDS

I don't care how "comfy" those new OTBTs or Jack Rogers are. You WILL get blisters this week. Because believe me when I say that you probably have never stood up in the "comfy" shoes you own for more than a few hours. Plus, you walk A LOT. Keep band aids because it will save you a lot of pain and it will potentially save the big, ugly blister we all fear having the most on our heels.

8. Tylenol/Medications

Be prepared to have the worst migraine of your life or cramps during this week. The stress and lack of sleep will definitely be tough on your body so stay prepared with any medications you take regularly or the occasional relief medication. With that said, only take things you have prescriptions for, so that you remain healthy and safe throughout the week! If it isn't meant for you don't take it. Even if someone claims how magical its curing powers are.

9. SNACKS.SNACKS.SNACKS

"I don't get hungry," they say. Yeah, yeah, whatever. I promise with all the walking and talking you will be hungry and you will need energy. This is not the time to pass out because you are not eating. It is important to have breakfast and keep on fueling throughout the day. Bring granola bars, gummies, protein bars, or fruit. Things that are nutritious, so that you stay energized!

10. H2O

Water is a must. Bring a refillable water bottle, so that you can keep hydrated throughout the day. It is super important that you keep drinking because not only may it be hot outside, but with a lot of women in a little space, it can become very hot in the houses as well. Do pace yourself though, so that you aren't running to the bathroom minutes before an event starts. Take advantage of bathroom breaks when you have them even if you don't think you need to go!

11. Extra sticky boobs/ undergarments

If you have a tote bag and fit these items into it, I would highly recommend that you stick in extra underwear and an extra bra. You don't want to have a malfunction and be left stranded if you know what I mean. Because YES, STICKY BOOBS FALL OF IF YOU SWEAT A LOT. I cannot tell you how many sticky boobs have just been floating around on the ground because they are no longer sticking to the skin. Be prepared and have an extra pair in case you need them.

12. Umbrella/rain jacket

You will want to be prepared for rain or shine, so you do not get soaked going from house to house. I know it may seem like a hassle to carry, but you will be so happy when you are not getting soaked in the monsoon that is summer weather in the South.

13. Flippy-Floppies

Don't kill yourself trying to walk in those 4-inch heels all day. Have a pair of comfy shoes to change into during breaks or times when you are having to walk long distances. I promise the mile walk in brand new Jack Rogers will not be a fun one. You will hate your life and get heel pain you have never experienced before.

GOOD LUCK LADIES.

xoxoxoxo the woman who was in your shoes