At first, I thought maybe I shouldn't write this article. Maybe someone is going to circle back with me disagree with my choice of speaking up about my experience. However, then I realized, there are so many other people who have or are currently experiencing the same exact thing.
When I first joined my sorority, which will remain nameless, I was so excited to meet new girls and get that "college experience." Within weeks, I had new "sisters" who were excited to wear letters after being initiated and attend events together. At first I enjoyed it, with the fun weekend activities, events, and volunteer opportunities, I felt like I was almost too busy. Soon enough, as girls do, cliques formed among my pledge class. I met so many girls, who openly accepted me and included me, and met new friends in fraternities.
I soon realized that I was becoming someone I'm not. I became obsessed with going out every night of the weekend, knew way too much information about everyone in Greek life, and had to be rescued a few too many times from bad situations. I began to notice that I was not the same happy, content, home-body I once was. I used to prefer spontaneous adventures before all of the parties my friends would encourage me to go to. Then I realized, I am still that person, but I was just in a crowd that wasn't that person. I surrounded myself with people that honestly made me feel uncomfortable and pressured. The pressure to post on social media, the pressure of drugs and alcohol, the pressure of not being liked and accepted.
In short, leaving Greek life was the best decision for me. I am now finally getting the grades I wanted, know exactly what career path I want, surround myself with friends who make me feel like my best self, and feel less stressed.
Of course, there are consequences. The numerous girls who have unfollowed me off social media. The people who refuse to say "hi" back, after I've said hello on the way to class. The disconnect from so many people you thought were your "friends." The exclusion out of group chats you were once a part of. The girls who roll their eyes and laugh at you when you're trying to just walk passed them. The people who now talk poorly about you, who you once held their hair, or stayed up late when they were crying over something for hours.
I, in no way am trying to put across a negative message about Greek life. Some of my best friends are in Greek life. I am just saying that for me, and for many people, that lifestyle is not for everyone. No one should stop being your friend just because you left an organization. That's just petty. What happens when you graduate and Greek life suddenly isn't the center of your life? I am confident in my decision, and finally feel back to my real self.
