Before going through recruitment many women always have many expectations of what sororities may be like. Some women may also be resentful in joining chapters because of predetermined stereotypes.
I am here to address the three main concerns and put those concerns to rest.
1. The "party scene"
Myself included, many women, parents, and other people may be very skeptical as to what sororities and fraternities truly are all about, because of the stereotypes they have gathered from movies. Many people view sororities as just a way to party more. When the truth is anyone can party. If someone desires to partake in those kinds of activities, they do not have to be in a chapter. Being in a sorority actually provides a safe and structured environment for social gatherings. This is because sororities and fraternities have national reputations to uphold.
They are also held liable for anything their members do. Each sorority and fraternity must communicate with higher supervisors every time an event is held to ensure the safety and security for all members. Being in a chapter provides alternate activities for members, meaning they do not have to take part in that scene if they do not want to without losing social interaction. Overall, sororities provide a safe and structure social environment that I am grateful for.
2. Greek Students don't have time to study
A concern of mine in joining a sorority is that my social life would overtake my academic obligations. My dedication to school and understanding that the reason I am here is for school, is something that I kept in the back of my head as I went through recruitment. I was excited to discover tons of other women understand that their academic obligations should always come before social activities just as I do.
Sororities also benefit you in that they give you a great outlet in connecting with people in your classes, connecting with older members who may have already taken the classes you have and can act as mentors, and people to study with and motivate you. Just like sports, most chapters check grades to ensure you're staying on top of your studies and many, if not all, set GPA requirements that members must reach to stay involved in the chapter. Overall, my sorority has enhanced my studies rather than diminish them.
3. Being in a chapter means "paying for your friends"
A very common phrase you hear when you join a chapter is that you are "paying for your friends". My first response is that, as horrible as this would be, you could be in a house and still have no friends; theoretically. I can tell you for sure that no one is paying me to be their friend. Instead, I connect easily with all the girls around me and making it so easy to create friendships.
We all have the same goals, view issues in the same light and are often interested in the same activities. That is why we are in the same chapter. Often girls in my chapter will say that your sisters are the best friends that you never knew you needed. I am here to tell you that the relationships you will make in a sorority are ones that will carry with you through the rest of your life. Those people you will remember and cherish forever and therefore those relationships are truly authentic and real.
I would recommend being a part of Greek life to anyone. It is such a unique opportunity to try something new and meet so many amazing people. I am proud to be a member of my chapter and I am proud to be apart of the Greek community here at Washington State University.
