I go to a small liberal arts school, full of students talented in both creative and academic ways. Though if you ask any of these students about greek life, their answer will most likely be “We have that here?” Everyone has different reasons for deciding to join a sorority or fraternity, mine was simple. I spent seven years at an all girls middle and high school, my social life was lacking due to the cliquish nature of my classmates. I never got to feel that sense of sisterhood, of feeling like you had a group of close friends around you that would always be there for you no matter what.

Coming to college I was very nervous about rushing, In my mind I was thinking I would be faced by the same girls that surrounded me in high school. Boy was I wrong, I was immediately greeted by the president of the sorority when I stepped up to the table and she told me all about the philanthropy work that the group does and how it is a large part of who they are as an organization. All of a sudden I was going through the rush process and for the first time putting myself out there and having conversations with as many girls as I could and really showing who I was as a person.

Joining a sorority by no means makes you a certain person, and there should not be a stereotype associated with sorority girls. Sure we like to have fun, but we’re in college, don’t all college kids like to have a good time? Not all sororities are filled with girls who are carbon copies of one another, which was my initial fear. Being used to going to school with girls who were only popular because they all shared the exact same interests. I soon found out that my group is full of athletes, artists and writers. On top of that, they're supportive, and we are all there for each other and give advice when its needed.

Eight months from walking up to that table and I am a proud sister of alpha epsilon phi. I have so much love and pride for the girls that I can call my sisters. Whether it be a quick hello or smile on the street or someone to eat pizza at 3am with, I know that these girls will stay with me beyond my college years. It is truly like having a family away from home, people who will drop what they are doing and help you in a time of need. For all of these reasons I am thankful that I have been able to come out of my shy, high school shell and surround myself with these strong women.