I didn't have a choice. Being in a sorority was never a true option for me. As recruitment week is coming to a close, I started thinking about why I didn't rush at Alabama. I didn't choose to come to this school to pay for my friends nor did I come for the partying. UA is home to me for the opportunities in academics, service, and leadership in order to be a better student and community member.

Searching for roommates back in February, I was a little weirded out when the first question asked was "are you rushing"? Every time I turned around it was assumed I had to join a sorority in order to fit in with the freshman females. With a mutual friend to the rescue, I was thankful to find some genuine roommates that have similar interests. While they decided to go through with the rushing process, I stepped back and watched three girls find the sorority of their dreams. I'll have to say attending Bid Day as a non-PNM is a lot different than expected. With parents, guests, alumni, current members, and new initiates, crowds of people around sorority row made a campus festival. If you haven't been to a UA Bid Day you are for sure missing out. It is a once in a lifetime experience.

While recruitment has its pros and cons, everyone has their own reasons for joining a sorority. I knew Greek Life wasn't for me based solely on the factors of financial and time commitment. Some people choose to go through rush in hopes of mastering sisterhood and making life-long friends. Some girls find true happiness in their chapter, and some do not. What's amazing about college, however, is that there is always time to change your mind and be a part of something new. I look forward to being involved through student government, community outreach, and professional career associations. UA is a wonderful place to get connected, and I am excited to start my career journey at the Capstone.

Overall, the pressure to rush at a large Greek school can be overwhelming. Don't be afraid to stand up for what you believe in and stick to your gut. College gives everyone a clean slate, and you are the one who decides which path to take. Make memories. Meet new people. Make mistakes. Have fun. But most importantly, enjoy this time and make the most of it.

Roll Tide Forever.