When people say to me, "Oh, you're in a sorority? So, like, you pay for your friends?" I cringe and die a little inside every time.

I usually say, "It's not like that." Or, if I'm feeling confident, "Yeah, I do, and I sure as hell don't pay enough for them."

However, this is what I would like to say to every person that has or will say that I pay for my friends...

First and foremost, let me break this down for you, okay?

Sororities are organizations with a national headquarters where an executive board oversees and monitors every collegiate chapter in the nation. In order for them to do their job which is to ensure proper operation, provide scholarships, produce channels of communication for collegiate members and alumnae, and much more, we pay annual national dues. This may come as a shock to some! Yes, the money we pay has a purpose, and is not collected to prove our social/economic status or for our chapter to throw parties and such (or whatever the stigma may be at this point in time).

Also, we pay a small amount for local Panhellenic dues as well as contributions to charities such as The Children in Need Fund and donations to students or community members who are struggling with medical bills or the loss of a family member.

Now that that's cleared up, I will explain why joining a sorority was worth every cent, and how it has given me more than I could ever give back in return.

My sorority has given me confidence. Confidence in who I am, who I want to be, and everything that I am capable of doing. I have never met a group of women more supportive, tolerant, and accepting.

My sorority has given me the chance to instill confidence in others, especially young girls in our community. Nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing girls break out of their shells, shed their insecurities, and embrace their individuality.

My sorority has taught me to be a leader. It has given me the opportunity to hold leadership positions and coach my sisters. Many of these roles have entailed interacting with other amazing members of the Greek and college community who I never would have met otherwise.

My sorority has strengthened my beliefs about the importance of service to others. My heart is happy knowing our donations, time, and effort make an impact and have the ability to better abused children's lives.

Yes, I PAY to be a part of an organization that has brought me lifelong, true friends; friends that I have laughed with, cried with, danced with, and everything in between. These friends have inspired me to be a better version of myself.

Most importantly, my sorority has given me hope for the future. The leadership, honesty, integrity, kindness, and motivation these women display truly amazes me. I have no doubt that they will always strive for that which is honorable, beautiful, and highest.

If you ask me, I'm not sure how anyone could put a price tag on something so special.