To the woman debating going through Formal Recruitment:

Last fall, I broke out of my comfort zone and did the unthinkable… I decided to go through recruitment. I shocked my family, friends, everyone I knew, as they told me time and time again that I was not a “sorority girl,” and I heard every criticism of Greek life known to man. Thankfully, I did not listen to these people, and I am here to tell you that going Greek has been the best decision of my life. So to all the ladies out there who are convinced that they are not girly enough to join a sorority, don’t fit the “sorority girl mold,” or are skeptical of the whole things, here’s my top 5 reasons as to why you should go Greek:

1. Friendships: For formal recruitment at Iowa State, we got to move in early and live with just the girls from our recruitment groups, and that was a blessing. Not only did I not have to deal with moving in at the same time as the other 700 people in my residence hall, I made friendships with women in my recruitment group that will last a lifetime. Plus, I gained 100+ sisters who I am lucky enough to call my best friends.
2. Academics: We all go to college for the same reason: to get an education, and I did not want a sorority distracting me from my studies. I am pleased to tell you that Greek life did the exact opposite of what I thought; it helped me succeed even more in school. From studying with girls in my sorority who were taking the same classes as me, to asking an older girl for help on a tough math problem, my sisters pushed me to be a better version of myself in the classroom
3. Leadership: I never expected all the leadership opportunities that come from being a part of a sorority. Not only can you lead within your own chapter, you also make connections with sisters in other organizations and get involved in other clubs and activities. Plus, when you enter the real world and are looking for a job, those leadership experiences will come in handy.
4. Service: Greek life gave me the opportunity to give back to so many incredible organizations and inspire me in ways I never thought possible. I participated in Dance Marathon, volunteered at my chapter’s philanthropic events, and worked with different organizations throughout the community. I have realized that there are so many things bigger than myself and my sorority, and Greek life has given me a newfound passion for service.
5. Memories: They say college is the best time of your life, and I am here to say that it is. My sisters have given me countless memories that I will cherish forever. From the excitement of bid day and running home to our new chapter, to the hilarious GroupMe conversations about everything and anything, and to the nights spent laughing at ourselves, my sisters make me smile bigger and laugh louder.

Going Greek has been a life changing experience, so to all the women who are on the fence about going through recruitment, this one’s for you. In the words of Kelly Clarkson, “Take a risk, take a change, make a change, and breakaway.” Have an open mind and give recruitment a chance and I promise you it’s one you’ll never regret.