Wow. It seems like just yesterday I was in your position, stepping foot into the chapter house for the first time. This is a time of excitement, your nerves kick in and you're not sure what to expect. What I wouldn't give to be back in your position.
With this being your first week of the best decision you have ever made, I have decided to make you a list of all of the amazing things you are going to experience in your new journey, here it goes:
1. Wear your letters proudly.
The day I received my bid was one of the happiest days of my life. Not only was I gaining over 100 sisters, but I was joining an organization that changes lives and inspires communities. Every time I put on a t-shirt, whether it's stitched letters or a party shirt, I am proud. I am proud to have been chosen to wear my letters and proud to be a representative of my chapter. Never let your pride, love and passion fade, sisterhood is forever.
2. Be yourself.
The best way to connect with others and find your niche within the chapter is by being yourself. My freshman year of college, I was very shy and lacked self-confidence. After becoming a member of my chapter, I gained confidence in myself and was encouraged by my sisters to let my personality out. For that I will be forever grateful.
3. Get involved.
Taking a position on my executive board was one of the best decisions I ever made. You get out what you put in, and I am lucky to have had such amazing experiences. I encourage every single one of you to take a position, whether it be on the executive level or appointed. You have the power to change the chapter for the better and improve it for years to come.
4. Get to know your sisters.
You're in, which means you are now a new member! Make the effort to meet older sisters and establish relationships. As a senior, I still want to get to know all of our new members, and you should feel the same! Sisterhood has no limits, no boundaries and no end. Embrace that and make the most of your time by creating and cultivating significant relationships.
5. Understand the history of your chapter.
Know your values, know your founders, know your motto. This information is the foundation of each chapter's belief system and an important part of your future in this organization. The history of your chapter should be kept close to your heart, embraced and shared with your sisters and friends for years to come.
6. Inspire.
You are now in a position that gives you the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it be a sister, friend, family member or stranger ... take the opportunity. Volunteer in the community or at the university, help those in need and remember that you are an inspiration to others.
7. Make every moment count.
As the famous saying goes, life is made up of moments and how you act in those moments will determine their worth. Make friends, make memories and most importantly make every moment count. The years that are in store will be the best years of your life. You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll have experiences you have never even dreamt or thought about. Take every moment in and remember that time flies by.
As I start my final year of school and my time in our chapter comes to a close, I look back on my collegiate experience and feel nothing but happiness. I have made incredible, genuine, lifelong friends that have made me a better person, I have made memories that will last me a lifetime and most importantly I found myself. For that, I will always be grateful.
Enjoy this time and make the most of your experience.
XO,
Your Older Sister
