Meet Jada Brentley; a current grad student here at IUP in the Department of Employment and Labor Relations. Jada also received her Bachelors degree from IUP, in Hospitality Management. She is a part of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. I got the chance to ask her some questions; find out what she had to say about being a part of a sorority and learn a little more about our first Greek of the Week.
Q: How did it feel when you first crossed?
A: It was an exciting and overwhelming feeling when I had finally become a member of my sorority. It was something I wanted for a long time, and all of my hard work had finally paid off. Truly a humbling experience.
Q: Why did you choose the sorority you are in?
A: I have been interested in Greek life prior to coming into college. During my freshman year, I was able to speak to some of the members and they were extremely down to earth and willing to talk. I attended events and even became friends with the members. Overall, they created a very welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for me. After doing research, the sorority’s principles, motto, and overall goals confirmed that this was the organization for me. My mother is also a member of the sorority and was initiated in Spring 1972.
Q: What was one thing that you learned about yourself?
A: One thing I learned about myself is that I have a very high patience level. There have been many obstacles thrown my way and in many instances, it would have been easier to walk away or “snap.” However, I was able to analyze situations before reacting to them and proceeding with a level- headed mind. This has been a beneficial trait that has helped me in my life.
Q: How do you balance your academics, social life, extra-curricular activities, etc.?
A: From undergrad to graduate studies, I’ve always had a hectic school schedule. For my day to day activities, I usually write down what I have scheduled or need to complete that day. I usually have phone alerts, Post-It notes on my mirrors or a highlighted calendar. I won’t lie, I tend to procrastinate when it comes to things I can put off (assignments, making my work schedule, etc.). Though I may wait longer to do it, I still allow myself enough time to finish on that given day.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A: In 5 years, I see myself owning and operating my own restaurant or bakery. Once I complete graduate school, I will continue to apply my skills within special events or food service as an event or catering manager. Following this, I will begin to apply the legal and administrative side of the industry, which will essentially demonstrate the ins and outs of my field. This will be a stepping stone for the operation and development of my own business.
Q: Advice to incoming freshman wanting to join a sorority
A: Research, research, research. I definitely advise anyone looking into Greek life to research all of the sorority’s websites. Every sorority is not meant for every individual, so learning about an organization’s principles and overall goals can help impact a decision. You should then attend events and get to know the members of the sorority, because why would you want to be apart of an organization you don’t know the members of? Even attending events such as “Meet the Greeks” can provide a lot of insight on the chapter on campus as well as the members.
Photos courtesy of Jada Brently