The typical sorority girl, when you Google, is defined as the preppy girl who loves preppy brands such as Lilly Pulitzer, does the skinny arm and adores all things pumpkin. I may be guilty of all of those things, but what I want the non-Greek affiliated people to know is that I like those things, but those things do not define me. Beyond the surface of my puffy vest, tall riding boots, scarf and pearls, are my compassion for all living things, my ability to read a book in an entire day and my genuine smile. I am not constantly shopping or spending my time wasting away. I work hard, study long hours and make sure that I am a good friend and amazing sister to my chapter. As a Gamma Phi Beta of Michigan State University, I find that many affiliated with the Greek system feel the same way. 

If you saw me walking down the street and all you noticed were my letters, you would not see the real me. You would not see the hours of work I put into my honors society each week as the secretary. The dedication to my blog and personal writings are not visible from the outside, either. My love for family, and adherence to honesty is just the beginning of what it means to be me. The hours I spend working my job and going to class are not common knowledge. What you see is the girl who loves the look of comfortable, preppy clothing. 

You see a girl who is in a sorority and assume she must get wasted all the time when, in fact, most of the time, I am at home finishing up what I need to get done ,or reading. You see the Facebook photos and maybe roll your eyes at the typical poses, but I see friendship, love and a commitment to be philanthropic for a lifetime. I see the women who helped my chapter raise over $36,000 for Relay For Life in 2014. I see the women who will drop what they are doing to drive someone home at night so they don't walk alone. I see the people who comfort me and have my back, no matter what. I see the women who do their best to inspire and build strong girls with philanthropy, such as Girls On The Run. 

Next time you are inclined to assume something because of someone's affiliations, take a step back and get to know the person. I know you would hope I do the same. Give everyone the benefit of the doubt, because you never know where you will meet your next best friend. 

Sincerely,

Sorority Girls Everywhere