Perhaps one of the most stressful, exciting, overwhelming, and funs things a woman can go through is sorority recruitment. Being from New York, I had no idea what to expect for a southern sorority recruitment. After going through recruitment, here are my best tips, and tricks for anyone about to embark on recruitment.
1. Go in with a open mind
So many women go through recruitment having an idea of what sorority they want to join, whether it's because of a reputation, they are a legacy, or something else. Because of this, many women are left disappointed because they were so focused on one chapter. Going in with an open mind allows you to connect with each chapter, and see who they really are.
2. Be yourself
Don't act, or dress like who you think a chapter wants. If you act like who you think they want, you will be left in a place where you may not feel like you belong. Being yourself will allow you to connect with the women within the chapter, and the chapter itself. You might even find your big during recruitment; I know I did!
3. Look at recruitment glass half full, not empty
It's always stressful finding out where you got invited back, and some women may not receive any invitations back, or an invitation back to their favorite house. While it may be discouraging to not receive a lot of invitations back, receiving a few back help you really get to know, and remember a chapter! And if you do not receive an invitation back from your favorite chapter, look for the qualities you liked in a different chapter. If you don't connect with a chapter in one round, you can connect with them on another round. Keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason!
4. Don't let the "tier system" influence your choices
There are stereotypes amongst each tier in the tier system. Don't choose a chapter over another because you associate them with a tier, and don't not choose a chapter you like because you think they aren't "top-tier." Just please don't fall into the tier system when going through recruitment. Choose a sorority based on the values they have, and uphold, and which chapter you feel at home with.
5. Bring multiple water bottles, and snacks
Recruitment is an all day affair, in the summer heat, nonetheless. Going from house to house, you will be drained, and will need to fuel up. Usually, houses will provide water cooler, but not snacks. Keep yourself fueled, and bring a granola bar, or another snack to keep you feeling good.
