When people think about Greek life, the majority of their minds go straight to associating it with parties and drinking every weekend. I mean, that is what Greek life is all about right? Wrong.

The mainstream of people fail to see all the good that Greek life does for the community. It is not just about socializing and going out every weekend, it is much more than that. People disregard all of the hard work Greeks put into their philanthropies, sister and brotherhoods, and community service. It is time to move forward from the stereotypes and acknowledge how they positively impact the community around us.

Philanthropies are essentially the foundation of Greek life, especially for my sorority. We are constantly raising awareness through fundraisers or events to promote and raise money for our two philanthropies. It is a priority for us to ensure we are always do something to make an impact and get all the girls involved. We are given the opportunity to do fun things such as fall festival and selling cute accessories to raise money. It is exceedingly important to us that we give back and while we do so we are able to have a fun time! If we are not doing things for our philanthropy, we are attending other organization's events to help with their philanthropies.

As you may know, Penn State has the largest student-run philanthropy, THON, but did you know it started by a sorority and fraternity? The Panhellenic Council and IFC are in charge, aside from the committees. We are able to come together as a Greek community for a cause that is bigger than all of us. We spend endless hours tirelessly working to raise money and focus on the kids. It was one of the reasons I personally wanted to join a sorority at Penn State. In just one weekend, we create so much good and happiness that impacts Penn State and Four Diamonds families as a whole.

Additionally, sisterhood is crucial to a sorority. You may be thinking, so what? What does sisterhood have to do with anything about why Greek life is good or bad? Well, for one thing, it is the main reason one decides to join a sorority or fraternity. It is important to have a respectable sisterhood to create a better connection. A sorority wouldn't be one if it wasn't for sisterhood. We go on retreats to bond and do activities to make us feel closer. It allows you to become a family and find people who really relate to you. They will be your sisters forever, so it is important to have a tight bond with them throughout the years of school. We work really hard to ensure everyone is having a great, safe time while really getting to know and value each other.

Finally, sororities and fraternities do service hours. My sorority requires us to do 15 hours per semester. With that being said, we spend a lot of time helping out our community through blood drives, Lion's Pantry, and cleaning up parks. This again is crucial to the Greek community as we are always trying to give back and do good.

Penn State had a very rough time last year with the hazing incident, but Greek life is trying to come back in a strong and positive way. Next time you think about the stereotypes of a sorority and fraternity, try to remember that we are here for good things as well and our intentions are good. We are so much more than just socials and stereotypes. We are here to help and make an impact on our community.