Although I have only been a member in my sorority for one year, Gamma Phi Beta has taught me important life lessons I could not have found anywhere else. Through my sorority, I have grown as a person and come to a lot of realizations about what being strong really means.

My philanthropic connection through Gamma Phi Beta is Building Strong Girls, which partners with the organization, Girls On The Run. Now typically, I could simply say something about how Building Strong Girls is important and how I like to be involved with the Girls On The Run. Both of these things are true, but what connection does this have toward me? Anyone can say they are a part of something, raise or donate money or volunteer for an event. But how does a philanthropy affect others on a day to day basis? As a member of Gamma Phi Beta, not only do I strive to be a good example for young girls, but the organization itself sets a good example for me.

Being a teenage girl in college is a lot more than what it seems to be. On the outside, we try to make it seem like we have it all together, but to be honest, we don’t. We go through heartbreaks, we constantly worry about money and school, we are surrounded by thousands of people every day and there’s always a competition every where you go. I am guilty of all these factors and know many other girls close to my heart who go through the same things. There have been moments where I wake up in the morning and already want to give up. I’ve struggled through depression, felt lonely, weak, unappealing and like a loser. I have seen my best friends rip themselves to pieces verbally based on their outer appearance, shape, size, skin tone, you name it. It breaks my heart to see that some of the best people I know have trouble coming to terms with themselves for whatever reason, and can't see themselves as beautiful and amazing as other people see them. I feel the sympathy because I know what it’s like.

Looking back, my first year in my sorority has helped me achieve self-actualization in more ways than one. As a member of Gamma Phi Beta, I realize I represent Building Strong Girls at all times, not just during the school year or during a public event. To me, the best way to be a part of something is to represent and relate to it on a personal level. If I want to lead by example for younger girls and Girls On The Run, I have to be the example. Struggling with my outer appearance and constant negativity does not build me up, it only tears me down. I have come to the conclusion that being confident and creating a happier mindset builds a stronger me. I represent Building Strong Girls; therefore, I must become one. Without Gamma Phi Beta, I would have never made such a strong personal connection. Not only is it my responsibility to take action for myself, but to help other girls when they are struggling the most and to help them grow as individuals. I hope to inspire others around me, not just in my sorority, but other people, as well.

So, thank you, Gamma Phi Beta, for building another strong girl.