Lauren Gugliuzza, new President of Theta Phi Alpha, has many responsibilities being in charge of this growing sisterhood! Previously the fundraising chair and a member of the standards board, she knows the ropes, and is fully prepared to lead her girls this spring semester. She states that it is going to be an extremely fun and exciting experience for herself, but that she also has “some big shoes to fill from our last President, Becca Baldassari.”
When I had the pleasure of interviewing the new “It Girl” of Theta Phi Alpha, she contributed some advice to incoming freshman about the best aspects of being part of a sorority. Lauren believes that by being in a close group of sisters, “You will make friends that last a lifetime!” Being a sorority sister is a fun way to meet new people with common morals while making life-lasting bonds. The girls in your sorority truly become your family away from home. Lauren provided some information about her sisterhood experience: “Theta Phi gives you the opportunity to travel, meet new people, and create memories you will never forget…Not to mention, there are tons of opportunities to have a leadership position in the sorority, and meet sisters from around the country!”
Being part of a sorority is not all partying, girls! Theta Phi has planned a ton of fun events such as a murder mystery night, yoga, and game nights. One of Lauren’s favorite fundraisers was called “Pie a Theta Phi,” which she refers to as a “hilarious event.” In addition to awesome activities, these well-rounded sisters have participated in a bunch of charity walks around Boston, supporting Breast Cancer and Diabetes. As Lauren states, “We know when to work hard and when to have a good time.”
Some fun facts about Lauren and Theta Phi Alpha:
Me: What has been the most challenging thing you have had to deal with in your position?
Lauren: I think the most challenging thing is just going to be all of the paperwork and keeping everything organized! I really just have to look over the chapter and make sure everything is running smoothly. I am here to help all of the other chairman, so I am not worried because I have an amazing group of ladies next to me.
Me: Tell me briefly the steps involved in becoming a member.
Lauren: First you need to come to our recruitment! You will see flyers all around campus, or join our recruitment Facebook page! After recruitment, if you are selected, you will go through a pledge sister process where you learn more about Greek life and Theta Phi Alpha. Then there is one last vote, and finally an initiation ceremony! If anyone has any questions at all please do not hesitate to contact myself of Sarah Falvey she is our new recruitment chair. We would be more than happy to talk to you!!
Me: What is the formal initiation ceremony like?
Lauren: Initiation is actually secret so I can’t tell you about it, so join and you can know all of our secrets! :)
Me: What is Theta Phi Alpha’s mission statement?
Lauren: “to create close comradeship, to advance educational, social and philanthropic interests and leadership training; to encourage spiritual development and adherence to the highest moral standards; and to promote lifelong bonds of friendship…”
Me: How valuable, in your opinion, is the overall experience of being part of a sorority during a girl’s college experience?
Lauren: In my opinion, this is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have an amazing support group, and your sisters really do become YOUR sisters. I have had some of the funniest most ridiculous moments with these ladies. Being in a sorority gives you a sense of pride and confidence as well, because you know you are a part of something great. It is hard to explain but every sister of Theta Phi Alpha has really helped me grow into who I am today.