I remember bid day like it was yesterday. The day that my life changed forever, the day I was accepted into the sisterhood of Gamma Phi Beta. That was the day that I began my amazing journey into the wonderful world of Greek life. At that time I didn't really know what to expect. I didn't know anyone who was in Greek life and all my ideas about it came from movies. But there is no way I could've known what was going to be in store for me through out that next year.
The first thing that Greek life taught me was:
1. You aren't going to be close with every single one of your sisters.
In a sisterhood filled with almost 200 girls, there is no way you're going to be best friends with all of them. It's the truth. But does that mean you love them any less? No way! Every girl in the sisterhood would drop everything the moment another girl was in need of help. Thats what sisters are for!
2. There will always be someone there for you.
Since there are almost 200 girls surrounding you, you always have a shoulder to cry on. The older girls have already gone through all of this and know exactly what you're going through, which means they're so much more understanding. Plus you have almost 60 new members going through the same thing. There will always be someone there for you helping you through your tough times.
3. As much as movies portray it, Greek life is way more than just partying.
From philanthropy events, to community service, Greeks do so much for the community that they live in. We have mandatory meetings we have to attend every week, community service hours that must be completed, and a certain amount of events we have to be at every semester. It keeps you pretty busy which is good because theres never any time to be bored!
4. Date parties, formals, and parties, oh my!
The two things that every member looks forward to in Greek life are date parties and formals. Date parties are so much fun because you get to dress up, since they're always themed. And formals are a blast because you get to get all fancy and lets face it, who doesn't love being fancy for a night?
5. Your big will become your best friend.
At NAU in Gamma Phi Beta, our bigs are referred to as our "moms" which is exactly what she is to me. Your big is there to help you learn what your sorority is all about and help you every step of the way. They'll be the person you fall in love with throughout the first couple weeks of being a new member and continue to love more and more every day after that. Remember how I said someone will always be there for you? Well your big is the perfect example of that. Any day, any hour, any time, they're going to be there for you. They'll easily become one of your best friends.
6. Greek life isn't for everyone.
Although you may love your sisterhood, you may know someone that doesn't see it the way you do, and thats okay. Keep in mind that everyone is different and even though you're close with someone, they might not think that Greek life is for them. All we can do in the Greek community is to share the knowledge we have, kill the rumors that come up, and continue to encourage everyone to join and love everyone that does. Remember, we're in this together.
7. Where you end up, is where you're meant to be.
There is no better feeling than opening up that letter on bid day and seeing the chapter that has chosen you. Its a flood of emotions filled with happiness, excitement, joy, and sometimes a little nervousness. It's tough to run up to a crowd you don't know and automatically feel comfortable. But keep in mind that the chapter you were put into is the one that you're meant to be in. They clearly loved you and think that you have what it takes to be a part of their sisterhood. Keep in mind that this is what is meant to be, you've found your home.
Looking back at it, I couldn't imagine my life without Gamma Phi Beta and the wonderful people I have met throughout the last year. The girls in my sorority have become my family and if I could go back, I wouldn't change a thing.
