You may think that you know everything about recruitment, but if you haven't been through it yourself, chances are you have no clue. Sure, some things you see in the movies are true. The doors open and every girl standing on the stairs looks flawless. You feel too uncool to be in their presence, and tripping quickly becomes your biggest fear in life. These feelings are natural. What aren't natural are the lame things you plan to do because you think it's what the sororities are looking for.

First off, stop trying to dress the part. There is no specific style to be in a sorority. Every chapter has a mix of girls, so don't change who you are for a week long process. If you try to fake it now then some girls will like you, but it will be because of who you're pretending to be. And believe it or not, most girls will just see through your act entirely. If your style is Lilly and Jacks, then do it and go all out. If you want to throw up when you see bright colors and bows, then stay clear. I like talking to new members who are unique and are not afraid to show it. Trying too hard only makes you appear uncomfortable. It puts up a blockade that prevents a chapter from feeling like they know who you actually are, and no chapter wants a girl that they feel is faking.

Second, when talking with a chapter member, stop trying to say what you think they want to hear. It is true that chapters want girls with aspirations. Involvement and leadership potential are important qualities of valued members. Maybe you do plan to “get really involved and hold a leadership position." But when a potential new member throws out this line, it only proves that they listened to their recruitment counselor. Maybe you don't know all of the opportunities to be involved in a chapter. So ask questions and show that you're genuinely interested. If you were involved in high school, talk about that and the chapter member can help suggest things you might like. Anything is better than giving generic and scripted answers.

Third, don't talk about how much you party and love to go out. This doesn't make you appear cool. It makes you look like you are joining a sisterhood for all the wrong reasons. No one cares what guys you met during your summer session, and you don't need to mention that you've been to all the bars. This isn't impressive. It just looks desperate and proves that you have the wrong outlook on Greek Life entirely. Don't listen to the other potential new members you meet during the process. They are all in the same position as you. It doesn't matter if they are older and have been on campus, or if they have a blood sister in the community. They still know nothing. This process is for you, no one else. You will hear girls' opinions about every house you enter. But listening to the opinions of others is the biggest mistake you can make. Opinions are subjective and your sisterhood will last for life. If you join a chapter because of superficial comments you overhear from a stranger, you will never find the connection you deserve.

You will meet girls in this process that were bred for sorority life. You will meet girls that claimed they never saw themselves Greek. I only went through recruitment to move up to school a week early. I considered dropping out of the process because I was convinced it wasn't something I wanted. Sticking through the process was the best decision I have made. I have learned so much about myself through my sisterhood and most importantly I have met the people I will have in my life forever. Joining a chapter is not about the reputation you hear from frat guys, or who has the best house. Recruitment is about finding your home away from home, and building a bond that will strengthen through your four years. It will be a challenging experience but bid day will be there before you know it.

So be honest with yourself and with the people you meet. Be respectful and authentic, and you will begin the greatest journey of your life.