Almost three years ago exactly, I took a bit of a leap of faith and went through sorority recruitment. I had a lot of reasons for making that decision, but I'd be lying if I said wasn't partially in it for all the cool T-shirts. But three years later, I'm beginning to realize that finding my sisterhood was one of the best decisions I have ever made. So in the spirit of rush season, I've compiled a list of things I never expected gaining when joining a sorority.
1. I've become really good at talking to strangers. From recruitment events to days of service at the Masonic home, I've found it easier and easier to talk to people I've never met. And not just mindless small talk, either, but things that actually matter. For example: Is Frozen actually a bad movie, or is it a pretty good movie that was just destroyed by all the hype?
2. I'm busy, but I've learned to handle it. One of the first things I noticed when I joined a sorority was that I suddenly knew all of these upperclasswomen and could always go to them for anything. As their agendas became crammed, they still somehow managed to stay on top of things, at least from where I was standing. If they could keep it together then, I can keep it together now.
3. I'm less afraid of trying new things. I'm a creature of habit. I hate moving away from my comfort zone. But one time, my Little actually got me to try climbing the rock wall. And you know what? It was awesome! Trying new things is scary for me because I really don't enjoy looking like a complete dumbass, and it's really easy to look like a dumbass on a rock wall. But being surrounded by people who love me, regardless of my occasional dumbassery, makes trying new things a lot less intimidating.
4. I'm completely confident in embracing my inner sorority girl. I used to feel a little uncomfortable about my femininity. Our society subtly teaches us that if women want to be treated equal to men, they have to abandon their pink lipstick and glitter. But I want you to know that that isn't true. Stereotypes be damned, my sisters are the pinkest, most sparkly people I know, and every single one of them is a total badass in her own unique way. Being a girly girl surprisingly doesn't compromise your ability to do anything.
5. I've stopped seeking approval from others—especially from guys. When I was younger, I was a complete people-pleaser and I really struggled with my self-esteem as a result. I felt like the only way I could be beautiful or special was if I had a boyfriend. I don't want anyone to feel that way. My sisters always build me up when I feel small, not because they expect anything from me, but because they know my potential and they want the best for me. Them seeing the best in me helped me see that in myself. I don't need approval or validation from anyone else.
6. I'm better at talking about my feelings. One of the most important lessons I've learned from my sisters is that there is no weakness in showing your emotions (yes, even if that means ugly-crying). Being able to talk freely about my feelings in a room full of people without worrying about being judged makes addressing those feelings about a million times easier.
7. I'm a better listener. Just as my sisters have always listened to me when I needed them, I've learned to always listen when they need me to. And it's so much more than pretending to listen while scrolling through Instagram; it's the realization that everyone has something to say, and everyone's ideas matter.
8. I'm a better feminist. When I joined my sorority, I found myself surrounded by strong, capable women, and I was inspired immediately. All of my sisters come from a host of different experiences and values, all of which deserve respect. An important part of being a feminist is allowing other women (and people in general) to make decisions that you might not necessarily make for yourself. Being in a sorority has taught me to respect my sisters even when I disagree with them.
9. I'm a better friend. Maybe this one seems obvious. But being in a sorority for the past three years has helped me to recognize all of the good things in each of my sisters, especially when they need a reminder. We all do sometimes. I can honestly say I'm a better person because of what I've learned from my sisters.
If you're on the fence about joining Greek life, I hope this makes your decision a little easier.
