Being in a sorority is often poorly portrayed throughout the media. They show girls going to insane parties, getting drunk, being absolutely bitchy to other people, hazing, and girls being stupid. Everything is either seen as funny or negative. When I told my mum I wanted to join a sorority she was shocked along with the rest of my family, not to mention many of my high school friends. What they did not know, and what other people do not understand is that being in a sorority is so much more than how it is portrayed.
Growing up outside the United States, I honestly had no idea what sorority life was. Like many people, I believed that being in one meant that I would have to do things I would be completely not okay with, so I told myself I would not join one. But when my sophomore year rolled around, I decided to try something new, learn about something that I was unsure about, and I am so glad that I did!
I became a tour guide at my college and am proud to say great things about my school, including being a part of Greek life. If a parent asks about Greek life, or if I talk about the fact that these organizations are present on campus, I receive many looks from the people who I am giving a tour to. Some guys and girls light up or smile, where as others look away awkwardly. Some fathers laugh and most of the mothers look extremely worried. What I tell them is that there is so much more to being in a sorority and so many positive aspects that are not publicized that are overlooked and not talked about.
One example is philanthropy. At my school, each sorority has a specific place they work to donate money for. The three sororities present work in helping organizations such as Saint Jude Children's research hospital, and PCAA (prevent child abuse america), and working with Girls on the Run. I remember when each of the sororities at my school explained their different philanthropy projects and this is one of the reasons that I wanted to join one.
When I explain this to the mothers they feel a little bit more at ease, but this is not all sorority life has to offer. I joined my sorority and found a place that I feel safe in. Throughout this school year I have met so many girls that I never would have met if not for the sorority, and let me tell you, it is NOT true that all of the girls in a sorority act and look the same. One of the things that attracted me to sorority life is the fact that everyone has differences, but these differences connect people, making them even stronger woman. Sorority life in college builds connections and creates a community that can stay with them forever.
Being in one sorority or another does not mean that those groups are exclusive, and it does not mean that being in a sorority means that it is unacceptable to talk to a person who is not. My roommate, one of the best friends I made my first year in college, decided not to join a sorority, but this did not stop us from hanging out, having late night talks or pizza sessions.
I go to Union College and the bottom line is, it's important to display the positive aspects of being in a sorority just as much as the negative ones. People who are coming into college: don't be intimidated by what you may read or hear. If you don't want to be a part of sorority life, thats okay! If the negative portrayals are holding you back, try something new like I did. It might turn out that you like it.
