Sorority recruitment is just around the corner or is in full force on some campuses. Freshman, do not be alarmed or feel intimidated by them! I remember being on campus for the first few days and I heard so many rumors about each organization (including fraternities) that turned me against Greek life. Now, I'm apart of Greek life on my college campus and I absolutely love it! The first time you walk into an organization's house, whether it's for a party or just to have a tour, it can be a bit uncomfortable and intimidating. This is totally normal, though. Greek organizations are large in numbers and seeing people wearing the same letters in the same room can be terrifying but stay calm. Don't be shy, try to walk up to the sisters and say hi if they aren't the first ones to do so. Let them get to know you and you should get to know them.
I went through the recruitment process four times so I am basically an expert at this sh*t. This semester is my first time being on the other side of recruitment which should be pretty fun! I joined Theta Phi Alpha this past spring. I love the sisterhood and the connections I have with sisters from different chapters. I'm a part of the Delta Theta Chapter at Hartwick College. We will be a part of recruitment this fall so if any of my fellow Hartwick students are thinking of joining a sorority, sign up for recruitment week! Round Robins will be happening the second weekend of the semester!
You can expect the following during the entire recruitment process:
1. People asking a ton of question about yourself
I got asked about my name, year, major, and why I decided to go through recruitment so many times! Be truthful and real when they ask you those questions. Make sure you are being yourself! Don't be fake.
2. Parties on the weekdays and weekends
They will invite you to parties on the weekdays, which can be difficult. I remember during my spring semester, I went to parties almost every night during the weekdays and I didn't know what was going on in my classes because I was so tired. My advice for you is to make sure you aren't slacking in your classes. Your classes are your number one priority no matter what. I suggest going to one or two parties at most.
3. Time Management
Your time management skills will be put to the test. You will realize that you will have no time whatsoever to do certain things because you have to go to informal/formal one night.
4. Seeing all new faces and learning names
You are going to meet the entire Greek life community. Depending on the college/university, you'll be meeting hundreds of girls. You won't remember everyone's name but you'll know the important ones.
Tips!
1. Ask questions
Ask every question you can possibly think of. Ask about their process, their values, philanthropy, sisterhood, etc...
2. Finding people on social media (Facebook and Instagram)
Friending people on Facebook from the sorority you are interested in shows them you want to know them better. Following them on instagram is acceptable too. Don't add them on snapchat or following them on anything else. You don't want to be too pushy.
3. Open yourself up! Break out of your shell!
Remember to be your true to yourself throughout the process but also break down some walls. Show them who you really are deep down. Talk about your values, strengths, and weaknesses.
I wish you the best of luck and good times if you are interested in Greek life and go through recruitment! I had a blast during recruitment and I hope that you do too! Hopefully you find an organization you feel at home with.