I'm sure you're more than ready to finish this year. By now, senioritis is most likely in full swing, and it should be. It's OK to feel ready to move on with your life now that this chapter is closing and you have a new one to look forward to. I always knew I wanted to rush. Even though hardly anyone in my family was Greek before me, I was always drawn to the idea of being in a sorority. I'm an extrovert, I love meeting new people and attending social activities. I'm lucky to have had such an amazing first year in the Greek system. If you are someone that's considering rushing, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Everyone is nervous going into recruitment
Rush makes everyone nervous. The idea of people judging you solely based on a few impressions is intimidating. However, everyone going through the recruitment process is experiencing the same fears and worries as you. It's OK to be nervous, just remember you're not alone. It's also helpful to keep in mind that the people rushing you are nervous too. Coming from someone who's been on both ends of the spectrum, recruitment week is tough for participants already in houses as well. It's a challenging process, and it's difficult to narrow down the incoming pledge class to only a certain number of people.
2. Sororities and fraternities aren't just one big party
Yes, even though they are social extracurricular clubs, they entail a lot more than just binge drinking on school nights. Philanthropy is a huge party of the Greek system. Every sorority and fraternity has a charity they donate to nationally. All of the same houses across the United States hold fund-raisers, blood-drives, and other events to raise money and supplies for their charities. Scholarship is another big part of Greek life. Each chapter has a certain GPA the members need to achieve to remain in good standing in the house. Some houses are more strict than others when it comes to grades, so if it's something that's important to you, remember to consider that when choosing where to rush.
3. Sometimes, Greek life isn't that different from high school
No matter what house you join, there will always be people you don't get along with. Some chapters have hundreds of members - chances are you're not going to like every single one. Just like in life, there's going to be people that frustrate you and disagree with you, but it's important to know how to cope when situations like these occur. Overcoming differences and sharing experiences is part of what makes the Greek bond so special.
4. Being Greek lasts for life, not just four years
Even though you can only be an active member during your four years of undergraduate school, it's something that will stay with you for life. My sisters are going to be the guests at my wedding, they're the first people I call when I need help or advice. They're amazing roommates, and my go-to people when I need a shoulder to cry on. Cliché as it may sound, my sorority has given me my lifelong best friends. It's an experience I wouldn't trade for the world and I'm so lucky to be part of an organization this amazing.
