To many students, Greek life is a fun way to meet new friends and have some fun in college. There is always an event going on, be it a philanthropy event, band party, or mixer. While everyone appreciates Greek Life and all the great services it provides, not many question who the person is that makes everything run so smoothly. This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing the woman that has the responsibility of ensuring the stability and success of Alabama Greek life. 

Hannah McBrayer is an accounting major from Birmingham. She is a senior member of Phi Mu sorority and the President of Alabama’s Panhellenic Executive Counsel. I was privledged to talk to Hannah about her position and ask her a few questions.    

Q: How has the term been going so far? 
A: Well, sadly, my term is almost over as we turnover in November but I can say that it has been an incredible experience. As Panhellenic President, I have met so many students, faculty, and administration that have really shaped my college experience. My time in Panhellenic has allowed me to meet some of my best friends and make memories that I will carry with me forever. 

Q: How did you first get involved in Panhellenic Exec? 
A: When I got to the University, I knew I wanted to get involved. I started in SGA and through those connections, I learned more about what the Panhellenic Executive Council was responsible for, and I decided that it would be a great organization to dedicate my time. I applied for Vice President of Administration in October of 2012 and transitioned into the presidential role in 2013.

Q: What are some of your duties as Panhellenic President? 
A: As Panhellenic President, I am in charge of setting the goals of the Executive Council, and ensuring that these goals are met. Some of the main activities that Panhellenic plans includes Panhellenic Preview Day, Fall Formal Recruitment, Greek Week, and Trick-or-Treat on Sorority Row. We are also in charge of coordinating Panhellenic points and having bi-weekly meetings with sorority delegates and Recruitment Chairs. There are 10 total members on Exec and each member is in charge of a specific area. I am here to help give them direction and make sure that Panhellenic is doing everything possible to assist the chapters and the University. I also work directly with UA Administration and act as the liaison between the chapters, Administration, and Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

Q: What are some changes you would have made in Greek Life at Alabama during your term?
A: During my tenure as President, I have worked continuously to create an atmosphere among the sorority presidents that allows them to rely on one another during difficult times. With monthly meetings with the presidents in a relaxed atmosphere (food seems to do the trick), the presidents have become good friends that can come to each other with any issues they are having with their chapters and can seek advice. Honestly, just establishing a President GroupMe has helped with this a lot! Being a sorority president is a unique job with many challenges and I think they have found it comforting to have a network they can come to. Overall, I am so proud of our Greek system and how far we have come. I am so excited for our future and the great things to come!

Q: How you think being in Greek Life and being President of Panhellenic will help you after college in the real world?
A: The most important skill I have learned as President is how to work with many different types of people from a variety of backgrounds. I have also enhanced my time management skills. However, the connections I have made during my time at UA will help me most in the real world and my ability to communicate effectively with others.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Alabama's Greek life?
A: My favorite aspect of Alabama's Greek life is the support that you feel as a part of this community. I have seen first hand how quickly we will all come together in a time of need and how much love we have for one another. Being a part of such a large university can be overwhelming, but joining the Greek community can help you find a fabulous group of friends and a place to call home.  

Q: What advice do you have to younger students in Greek life at Alabama?
A: My advice would be to make your Greek experience exactly how you want it! There are so many aspects of our Greek community that make it the best in the nation. Whether you're interested in leadership, community service, or you're the life of the party, there is something for everyone that can make your experience tailored to you! It is up to you to make your college years and your time in your fraternity or sorority count.