One of the more popular topics during the beginning of every new school year is Greek life. Freshman are trying to decide if they want to go Greek, all of the non-Greek upperclassmen get annoyed with bubbly sorority girls scouting potential new members, and all of us Greeks are pushing recruitment as though our lives depend on it. It’s a really interesting time. However, for the freshmen that are unsure of whether or not Greek life is for them, it can be extremely overwhelming. I’ve been there and I remember being confused about whether Greek life was for me and then trying to decide between which groups I thought best fit me. What I've discovered, though, is that going Greek is actually one of the greatest things I’ve done.
Going Greek isn’t about getting a big/little. It’s not about the free t-shirts (although who doesn’t love t-shirts) or getting to take cute pictures with all of your sisters/brothers. Choosing to get involved in Greek life is actually so much more than that. You’re entering a family, not just the sisterhood or brotherhood that you pledge to but Greek life as a whole. You become a part of a group of incredible and diverse guys and girls that all share the same passion for their groups as you do for yours.
Joining a Greek group gives you the opportunity to earn leadership skills through executive positions as well as opportunities to volunteer and do community service. Greek life also gets you involved on campus, and if there is one thing I tell EVERY incoming freshman it is to get involved. It is so important. It also introduces you to people you might not have otherwise met. This doesn’t necessarily just include the current active members on your campus either. The alumni from your group are some of the most amazing people you will ever meet. They can also help you make really great connections for careers after you graduate.
Even if you’re unsure about Greek life at first, check it out. Go to recruitment events or ask questions. If there is anything we Greeks like to talk about it is our groups. We are very very proud of who we are and what we stand for. We are happy to help you figure out if going Greek is the best for you and even more than that we are happy to help you find the right group for you.
So, while it appears on social media and movies that Greek life is all glitter, crafts, sorority-squat-pictures, and Instagram captions we are SO much more. There is a lot that goes on that most people do not get a chance to see. We are a collective group of individuals that have a purpose that is best achieved together. So if you are not sure what to think about your freshman year; think Greek.