1.) Meeting Upperclasswomen – There are numerous opportunities to meet upperclasswomen on campus, for example, through clubs, classes, etc. However, in a sorority, one gets to know all of the women on a personal level. Aside from living and eating together, the sisters support one another by attending each other’s athletic events and club-sponsored activities. Upperclasswomen act as mentors for their younger sisters, offering them advice and encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones.
2.) Philanthropy – Every sorority at Colgate sponsors a national charitable organization. Tri Delta’s national philanthropy is Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Gamma Phi Beta’s national philanthropy is Camp Fire USA. Kappa Kappa Gamma’s national philanthropy is Reading is Fundamental, Inc. Each sorority hosts campus-wide events several times a year to raise money for these organizations. The events are great ways to spread information about the charities to members of the Colgate community and are fun for everyone involved.
3.) Leadership Skills – Being in a sorority awards you with many opportunities to hold a leadership position. Aside from the more prominent positions such as President and Financial Vice President, other positions also exist, for example: Collegiate-Alumnae Relations, Philanthropy Chair, Ritual Chair, and Scholarship Chair. These positions foster organizational, financial, and management skills.
4.) Networking with Alums – Each of the sororities at Colgate has a very strong connection with their alumni base. Alumni are always excited to meet and speak with new members, and are always interested in how they can assist members after graduation.
5.) Commitment to Scholarship – To be eligible to rush a sorority, you must have a minimum GPA. To remain a part of that sorority, you must maintain or exceed that GPA. Each sorority offers study hours that are either required or strongly encouraged for members. Sororities place a high value on academic achievement.