In fall 2015, Sigma Kappa sorority colonized at UAB. I had always said I would never join a sorority, but I became interested in Sigma Kappa. As I went to info nights, I learned more about Sigma Kappa and learned that the stereotypes that surround sororities couldn't be farther from the truth. I learned that Sigma Kappa is a values-based organization that empowers women and encourages them to reach their full potential.

Starting at UAB my freshman year, I knew almost no one. I missed my support system back home. Through Sigma Kappa, I quickly found one. Two of Sigma Kappa's core values are loyalty and friendship. Throughout my two years as a member, I have seen these values in abundance. My sisters encourage and support each other through everything. If I am having a bad day, all I need to do is reach out to my sisters and one of them will respond and help me with whatever I need. Approaching my birthday this year, I wasn't too excited and was feeling pretty down about it. On my birthday, a few of my sisters surprised me and decorated my room with balloons and a cute sign. This small gesture made me feel loved and supported. This community of sisters has become my support system and home away from home.

Another one of Sigma Kappa's values is personal growth. Throughout my two years of being a Sigma Kappa, I have grown exponentially. I have overcome by shyness, by gaining 90 sisters and talking to people I'd never met during recruitment. I have also grown as a leader. This year I was elected to my chapter's executive council and recently attended the Regional Leadership Conference (RLC) which is a training weekend for Sigma Kappa officers. At the Conference, I again met new people and learned networking skills. I also gained skills to better lead my chapter.

While at RLC, I was reminded of the amazing national organization that I am proud to be a member of. Sigma Kappa is an amazing national organization that started with just five women in 1874. These five women were the first women to be accepted at Colby College. They started Sigma Kappa as a way to support each other and help other women grow. Over 100 years later, Sigma Kappa is still doing that and so much more. This is why I am proud to wear my letters.