Recruitment is over, the fall semester is in full swing and your first semester as a member of Greek Life is just beginning. As someone who’s in their third and busiest year so far, I wanted to share some pieces of wisdom with you that I have picked up along the way.
1.) Have fun!
I know this sounds a little redundant. I mean, you just joined a sorority, so of course, you are going to have fun! Unfortunately, juggling a sorority, classes and other activities can become very overwhelming very quickly. No one has ever said college was easy, but it shouldn’t make you miserable, either. Finding time to relax and enjoy yourself can make your days a little better, especially if you are having fun with sisters. Whether it be a crazy weekend together, a Cabana date, or even a night-in watching movies and talking, taking time and enjoying yourself is essential.
2.) Get involved within your organization.
Finding your place in a large organization can be difficult, but a great way to make close friends is by getting involved. With homecoming approaching quickly, participating in an event can create strong bonds between you and your sisters. Being a veteran rope pull team member has definitely shown me that nothing brings sisters closer together than late night practices, complaining about aches and pains and working closely together night after night. You should also try holding a leadership position. These positions are not only your opportunity to help the chapter but also to help yourself. Personally, by taking on several leadership positions, I have been able to grow as a person and a leader, as well as become a better sister. If you are hesitant to take on the responsibility of a major leadership position, there are always a million different committees and events to help with.
3.) Branch out beyond your sorority.
Being in a Greek organization is an amazing experience, but branching out further than that single organization is very important. Your campus is full of different organizations; some are major-specific, some are charitable and some are just for fun! Investing your time and effort into a campus organization is a great way to better the university and make yourself a stronger leader. By stepping outside of the boundaries of your chapter, you will also make a ton of other Greek and non-Greek friends! Plus, a couple of campus organizations always look good on a resume.
4.) Your sisters ALWAYS have your back.
Trust and rely upon your sisters. There will be times during your college career in which you may feel like you’re drowning. Don’t let a bad day or week get the best of you. Talk to your sisters. These girls have your back even if you don’t realize it, and they will always be more than happy to help you. Likewise, these ladies will depend on you if they need help. Never turn your back on your sisters in a time of need. Remember: You are tied together by more than a couple of Greek letters. You are tied together by an amazing sisterhood that depends on you and your sisters taking care of each other.
5.) Don’t wish your life away.
To date, I have heard “Ugh, I wish I could graduate already” approximately 14 million times. I myself make up about six million of those, but the closer I come to graduation, the more I wish I could go back to freshman year. Sounds crazy, right? From where you are now, it may seem like college will never end. Unfortunately, time will fly by faster than you ever expected. Please don’t take the next couple of years for granted. I promise you will miss them dearly when they’re gone.
Photo by Katie Treadway on Unsplash