Similar to high school, starting college can be a good or a bad experience. It is all up to you and what you want to do. In my case, I rushed a sorority and gained new sisters. And I am continuously judged for it.

Coming into greek life, I knew it would be an adjustment. I would have to pay dues, meet new people, and maintain high standards for myself. But that hasn't been the hardest part of it. It's the glares I get from unaffiliated students when they see my letters on my chest. It's the way my professors raise their eyebrows when I ask them to sign grade reports. And it is the imaginary sticker on my forehead that labels me as a "sorority girl". And I am tired of that label.

Everyone knows, of course, that I am in a sorority. They see my letters on my shirt, my pictures with my sisters, and my "throw what you know's". But they don't see that there is more to me than that. I am an English major with an undying passion for writing, reading, and music. I am working on getting my teacher certification so that I can change the lives of struggling high schoolers like I once was. I have other passions, hobbies, and interests outside of my sorority. And along with my sorority, those things have molded me into who I am.

I am sure many have stereotypes about sororities in general, and about my own. Some think we party too much, or only date fraternity men. I can vow to say that, though some girls in sororities do those things, that is a generalization. In my free time, I seldom go out, but would rather sit down and write poetry or read a good book. And on top of that, I have a non-greek boyfriend, who I adore. So before you look at me and immediately stereotype me, take the time to get to know me.

I am not saying I'm not proud to be greek because I am. I love having a big, and having found one of my best friends in my sorority. I love my t-shirts, and getting dressed up. But that doesn't mean I am not my own person. I am in a sorority, but I am not a stereotype.