The spring 2016 semester is well underway. Being a month into the semester means that sororities everywhere have taken in another new member class.
New Members Everywhere,
Welcome and congratulations on the start of your journey as a collegiate member! Joining a sorority will be the most rewarding experience of your college career.
You will learn more organizational, leadership, and networking skills than a classroom would ever be able to offer. You will also meet some of the best people, they will become your people and those friendships will last long after you switch that tassel to the other side. Most importantly, your time as an active sister will change you, but for the better.
When you accepted that bid you became a representative of your organization. You now are a direct reflection of an entire group of women, which sometimes includes more than 100 people. Do not look at this statement negatively. Instead, use it as motivation to be a better person because your sisters deserve that version of you.
I think I've earned some valuable experience since I joined two years ago. It has certainly changed me more than I would have ever imagined. The last two years have made me a leader with insane organizational skills. I have learned how to work as a member of a team. My time as a sorority woman has taught me to really think about what I am saying before I say it.
My two years here have also given me friendships that I cannot imagine life without. Laughs, late nights, too much glitter, and last minute decisions to study abroad. They have all been a huge part of the experience that made all the hard work of sorority life worth it.
Here's my advice, if you want the experience that everyone brags about you need to get involved. Everyone's schedules are different; some more time consuming than others. I am not saying you need to have an officer position, but go to as many events as you can. Hold a chair position or join a committee. Being given a responsibility makes you feel like an asset to the chapter. It will be the motivation you need to be a great sister. You will be present more and be likely to put in more effort.
If I am being honest, sorority life is not always easy. What the recruitment videos don't show you are the dues, the time commitment, and sometimes all-around frustration that stems from being a sister. Do not give up on your organization. Keep putting in the work and making memories. It will always be worth it.
If you ever need help, don't hesitate to ask. Seek out an older sister. Chances are she has been in a similar situation and has the perfect solution to whatever problem you are facing. More often than not she will be thrilled to help and share her story. You're never alone, remember that.
Enjoy it. Every second of it. It will be over before you know it. You will not be able to repay your organization for everything it will give you as you move forward. Just be grateful that you got to have such a great experience.
