Movies such as "Legally Blonde," "Sydney White," and "House Bunny" have caused most of us to think about sororities through one lens: One-dimensional girls who just want to go to mixers with fraternities, meet boys and go to more social events, then party even more. Although these aren't necessarily bad desires, they aren't defining characteristics of sorority women, just of female college students, for the most part. I have compiled a list, however, of some things sorority women do care deeply for.
For the PNMs reading this: As a girl who knew nothing about sororities except for what society imposed upon me, I challenge you girls to truly seek out what sororities were founded on and are still about. Rush/recruitment can be a really stressful and overwhelming time because you are joining something bigger than yourself.
For the sorority chapter members reading this: Even if you are a member already and you're reading this, this can apply to you, too...I want you to remember the reasons why you joined the sorority you're in and what you can do to make it even better. Being in college, it's easy to forget the goals and ideals of your sorority. Reflect on this article and maybe even on yourself. If you aren't where you want to be, try to get there...if not for yourself, do it for your sisters who only want the best for you <3
For the people not in or affiliated with sororities reading this: I challenge you to not look at sorority women as girls who lack morals, but who truly have very strong character and desire to impact the world. Please support these girls because they are the ones raising money for great causes and charities that really help those in need around the world!
Sorority women are chosen based on values. We want girls who love others, are kind and sweet, want to be/are involved around campus and genuinely want to make a lasting impact on this Earth.
1. Philanthropy
This is what really grabbed at my heart strings and shook them around a bit. Seeing a video, experiencing real-life circumstances, or even hearing stories about those less fortunate than me and pretty much anyone at a college or university pursuing higher education makes you really appreciate and be thankful for what you have. Sure, our charity events may be a ton of fun, but we spend countless of hours organizing these events in order to raise money for our incredible philanthropies. Especially for the leaders of our chapter, being in a sorority can really be like a job, but you don't get paid. These girls gladly take the initiative to lead our chapter to do great things, not only for our campus, but for our nation and the world.
2. Sisterhood
Who wouldn't want 200-plus girls to be there for them when times got rough, you needed another outfit option, or wanted someone to get dinner with? Even though I don't know every girl in my sorority super well, I know that they would have my back if I ever needed anything. Sisters are forever, not just four years, and these lasting bonds are what will continue to challenge you to be a better you in the future. These girls will love every part of you, even the parts they don't notice...but since they come from you, they add a hugely important aspect to the sorority. Just because you are sisters means that they have to love you, even though it really doesn't take much convincing ;) Why else would they shower you with gifts and love on a day that's not even your birthday?
3. Academics/Involvement
Being in college, studying and keeping up with your work is also very important, obviously. You wouldn't be paying thousands of dollars otherwise! This is important to our sorority because we want each other to do well and be her best self! We hold study hours and the older girls in your major who have taken the same classes can tutor/help guide you. We want our girls to be successful, so we provide them with skills and encouragement to do so. Being involved also helps prepare us for the real world and our future careers. Being able to manage school, a sorority, and other clubs/organizations on campus helps us with time management and organization tools.
No matter which person you are, I think all can glean that sororities are more than just girls who throw up pictures with their fingers in Lilly Pulitzer dresses; we are so much more! We sorority women strive to truly make the world a better place and get to have our sisters with us all the while because they share the same passions that we do. So, go Greek! It will completely change your life for the better, just like it did for me.
