Hey everyone! So as most everyone knows, I am super proud to be in my sorority. I rushed my freshmen year and became highly involved in my sorority (eventually ending up as Madame President). I know about everything there is to know about Sewanee’s Greek life and the rush process. So, I figure, why not share that information with ya’ll?
Before we get started let me remind you to keep an open mind. Do not go into Formal House with a set in stone mind of who you want to rush. Be genuinely interested in the other sororities and active in the chatter that they engage you in.
Now this isn’t my Rush Week Tips article, but you should totally go read that if you want to know what conversation starters you should think of, what questions to ask, and what to wear during formal and return house!
Now, this is it. You’ve waited an entire semester and now it’s here. Like literally here, because this is happening the weekend we get back to school. Woah.
The Meetings
First, you’re going to go to ALL the mandatory meetings. Seriously, go to them. Hagi is there so you know they’re going to be great. Plus that’s where you get put into your groups and get your schedules. So seriously, please go to the meetings. PLEASE.
The Dreaded Formal House
Aight, so formal house. First of all expect less of this:
And more of this:
… Don’t dress like that though….
So don’t be too scared, Formal House is exhausting but SO MUCH fun!
Now, in my other article I explain what you should wear and blah blah blah, so in this one I’m just going to dive right into what you should expect.
First you’re going to go to your first house, which is on your schedule, and meet your Rho Chis. Typically. They may change it but no matter what the first thing that happens is you meet your Rho Chis. Now Rho Chis are people who are temporarily dissociating themselves from their sororities in order to show ya’ll around. They can’t tell you what organization they’re from, and if you happen to know then just keep it to yourself. They’re your unbiased tour guides, so to speak.
They’ll lead you to the sorority houses during the first and second night of formal house. There is a break for dinner, and there is a ton of food at all the open houses so don’t worry about going hungry. Trust me.
We have 10 sororities, so theoretically you’ll be going to five houses each night. That’s a lot of energy, so be sure to stay hydrated and eat some good food. And please get some sleep the nights before!
Formal House is on a strict schedule, but don’t worry about keeping track of time! That’s what your Rho Chis are for.
Do keep track of your nametags though, pretty please!
Return House
Oh, it’s not over yet though.
After Formal House, which you will be taken to ALL sororities, there is Return House, where you must return to at least four sororities and sign in. So pick your top four and go visit!
My advice is to save your absolute top choice for last, so that you’re not rushed during your visit. There is technically a schedule, but you don’t have to go in your groups. The schedule is more just so you know what sororities will be open when. Your Rho Chis also won’t be touring this night, so make sure you know where everyone is going to be (it’s on the schedule, don’t worry)!
BE SURE TO SIGN INTO FOUR PLACES!
The Passing Hello
So it may seem like nobody is talking to you, don’t panic. Between Return House and Shake Day there is implemented the passing hello. That means that any upperclassmen who is in a Greek organization cannot talk to you other than to say hello. Don’t worry, it’s only five days!
Preference Day
Woo! It’s here! Preference Day! This is the day where you go fill out a card listing your top four sororities, as well as any sororities that you wouldn’t mind being a part of. PLEASE TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY!
If you get your second or third choice then you better make sure you put down someone you’re actually interested in rushing! As an alumni put it, “Don’t be disappointed or disheartened if your number one choice didn’t pick you. Go to shake day regardless. Feel out your number two or three, or even four. If you don’t feel like it’s a good fit, fine. But so many girls miss out on something great because only have eyes for one.”
And remember, if you go to Shake Day, give the sorority a month or two and if you decide it’s just not right for you then don’t panic! As one anonymous source puts it, “It’s not like you’re choosing a spouse. You can change your mind later if the first option doesn’t work out so calm the fuck down.”
I know I’m pushing it hard core, but seriously, if you’re worried about dropping through or anything then check out my Rush Week Tips article for some advice.
SHAKE DAY IS HERE! GET HYPE!
Okay, so wait for it, because your preference cards are about to arrive. They will be slid underneath your door, with a welcome message from your new sorority presidents, rush chair, and social chair (or something like that)! On the back of it will be where and when to meet your New Member Educator (as well as your pledge sisters) who will lead you to meet your new Big Sisters!
Also the note will tell you what you should wear. Follow that down to the letter. Just, trust me. Seriously.
MERRY SRATMAS EVERYONE please drink responsibly and be safe!