Joining a sorority gives you the opportunity to meet many strong, talented and independent women who can inspire you every single day. It is a chance to come together with different organizations to find out what we have in common and to learn and appreciate our differences.

Being in a sorority means so much more than what most people think. Each and every person has their own reasons for joining, and staying.

Like many other college women, I had no intention of joining a sorority. I had a hard time getting involved in college because it seemed so intimidating after coming from a smaller high school. I didn't think it was for me, but when I met a new member of Alpha Xi Delta, I became interested in possibly joining one of these organizations. One year later, I am a proud sister of Alpha Xi Delta and the Panhellenic President at Temple University. In just one year, I have fallen in love with being a Panhellenic woman, and want to show others why it is so important to rely on your sisters in your own organization as well as in your council as a whole.

At Temple, we recently had Badge Day. This was a time for all five Panhellenic sororities on campus to come together and learn about each other, to tighten our bonds as Panhellenic women.

We first talked about an amazing philanthropy organization that we want to start called The Circle of Sisterhood. I had learned about this non-profit organization at the Northeastern Greek Leadership Association Conference, and knew that it was something to bring to Temple.

We talked about this history of sororities, and how they were created to give women the opportunity to get an education during a time where it was frowned upon.

After, we had the chance to talk to sisters of different organizations, and we heard testimonials about what women love about their own organizations. Here are some things that they said:

"My favorite memory was seeing how confident and brave the new members were; I'm glad to share letters with them."

"Recently, we had a last minute event and a huge group of girls raised $300 at a bake sale, and it was selfless love."

"My Little told me that I saved her, when in reality she's the one who saved me, and that's so special."

"Seeing younger girls and knowing they'll be able to carry out the morals of our sorority is a proud moment for me."

"My sisters are such a strong support system, and I remember to keep pushing through no matter what."

"Being able to learn about sisters and hear how strong they are makes you open up and it makes you feel at home."

Each of these statements were made by women in different organizations. Everyone has their own story, and I thank my sisters in Alpha Xi Delta and sisters of Delta Zeta, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Delta Phi Epsilon and Phi Sigma Sigma for helping me write mine.

Keep spreading that Panhel love, ladies!