This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Vanderbilt chapter.
As a fellow Zeta Tau Alpha Sister and Executive Board member, it is easy for me to see that Tamar works hard in her position as VPI. All of our sorority’s successful events can often be attributed to Tamar’s part in making them happen. She often jokingly says that “Zeta is my life” but after getting to know her, it has become obvious that she is a true leader in every aspect of her life.
Name: Tamar Anna Alexanian
Year: Sophomore
Major: English and HOD
What made you want to apply for EC: I never imagined that I would be this involved with my sorority. But once I realized how much I love my sisters and how I want to make sure their voices are heard and their needs are met, I realized that the best way to do this would be through involvement on our executive board.
What is involved in your position as VP1: If I’m doing my job right, it’s all about supporting each of my 25 committee members and making sure their needs are met when they are planning events. Sometimes that looks like making phone calls about reserving rooms, or sending emails to people and asking questions, or coordinating events and sending email blasts. It’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Our planning committee does calendar planning, weekly meetings, and the execution of almost all of the events that we have (with the exemption of a couple). I also work very closely with our advisors, who have been incredibly supportive as Zeta Tau Alpha has grown.
What has been your favorite part of being VP1 so far: I love helping committees put on programs and having sisters say afterwards that they had a blast or that they got closer with a sister they didn’t’ know as well. It’s always about bringing people together. Seeing how I can help facilitate that is such a rewarding experience.
What other organizations are you involved in: VUcept, The Afterschool Program, committee for Salvage the Bones freshmen summer reading, Alternative Spring Break participant, Student Centers service associate. I’m also on my executive board for the Armenian Youth Federation in Chicago.
Any advice for those of us seeking out leadership positions in our organizations: Do not be discouraged when you don’t get what you want. Vanderbilt can be overwhelming: everyone is fabulous, all of the time. This doesn’t mean that you aren’t fabulous, though. Find organizations that you can love, and that can love you back.