Going through primary sorority recruitment as a sophomore was one of the most exciting and transformative experiences of my college journey so far. I am deeply grateful to my family for encouraging me to go for it, and especially to my mom, whose support (and shopping trips for outfits I was comfortable in) gave me the confidence to step into the week with excitement! What began as a week full of unknowns quickly turned into days filled with empowerment, connection, and genuine joy.
For some, joining a sorority is about finding a place where they feel truly seen, valued, and supported. For others, it is about legacy and joining something larger than themselves. For many, it is the chance to build lifelong friendships, give back through philanthropy, and grow into leaders.
The beauty of recruitment is that there is no single “right” way to experience it. Whether someone joins their first-choice sorority, discovers an unexpected home, or even decides that Greek life is not their path, the process itself holds immense value. Each step taught me something about my voice, my presence, and my connections with others.
This is what the week looks like here at Illinois State:
The Rounds of Recruitment
- Welcome Round introduces potential new members (PNMs) to every chapter on campus. It is all about first impressions and discovering the variety of personalities and values that make up each sorority.
- Philanthropy Round dives deeper, highlighting each chapter’s commitment to service. PNMs learn about the causes that drive sororities’ collective energy and impact. This was the moment I saw the heart behind the letters.
- Sisterhood Round gives a glimpse into the bonds, traditions, and everyday support that sorority life offers. Here, conversations felt personal and authentic.
- Preference Night is the most intimate and emotional round. Filled with tradition and heartfelt conversations, this is where I could envision where I belong. It solidifies connections and sparks the “this feels like home” moment.
- Bid Day is the celebration! PNMs “run home” to the chapter where their journey continues as new members. It is a joyful, high-energy moment that marks the beginning of sisterhood!
The days are long, but happy! Here are some ideas of things to keep on you so you can feel your best:Â
What to Keep in Your Bag
- Water bottle (hydration is important during long days!)
- Mints (not gum)
- Lip balmÂ
- Band-AidsÂ
- Small hairbrush or compact mirror
- Flossers
- Deodorant and perfume (it gets sweaty!)
- Hand sanitizer
- Notebook & pen (to jot down impressions after each house, you will thank yourself later)
You will be doing a lot of chatting with a lot of different people. Here are some notes to prepare you:
Conversation Tricks
- Have a few stories ready about your hobbies, leadership, service, or a fun fact.
- Ask thoughtful questions like:
- “What’s your favorite part of being a member here?”
- “How has your sorority shaped your college experience?”
- “What’s a sisterhood event you loved recently?”
- Listen actively. Recruitment is just as much about you learning about them as it is about them learning about you. Being genuine and curious makes conversations flow naturally.
Final Thoughts
Recruitment is not just about finding a sorority, but about finding yourself in the process. You will learn how to speak confidently about your story, how to connect with women from all walks of life, and how to trust that the right home will reveal itself. It is a different experience for everyone.Â
I truly believe that mindset is everything, and the process is what you make of it, so lean on the people around you and embrace each moment, especially when you are dripping in sweat, getting blisters from your heels, and are losing your voice from doing so much chatting!
Whether you are a freshman, or a sophomore like me, bringing a new perspective, remember that you are enough, exactly as you are. Bring your authentic energy, lean into the process, and know that somewhere out there, your “cool” will match with theirs.
Take a deep breath, trust the journey, and get ready for a week you will never forget.
Good luck, you got this!