Congratulations to all the girls and guys who ran to their new homes last weekend after three jam-packed days of formal recruitment. A lot changes when you join a house and, especially with a new semester starting, all those changes can be overwhelming. On bid night, you are introduced to so many new people who are now your sister, and they are talking about forming these lifelong friendships while you are still trying to remember everyone in your pledge class’ name. It is important to stay calm, though, and try to embrace this new chapter of your life. Here are a few things you can do to make sure you are getting the most out of your new sisterhood.
1. Hang out at the house
Most sororities on campus encourage new members to hang out at the house whenever. Do that! The best way to get to know the active members and also your new house is to spend time there. The upperclassmen want to get closer with you, and it is a lot easier for them to reach out to you if you are at the house. You should also ask about coming over for meals. Sitting around a table is a great way to swap stories and grow closer to people. If you are particularly busy with school one week, and don’t have time to just hang out, take your books and a couple of friends from your pledge class and study in the living room. It will still help you feel more comfortable in your new home.
2. Reach out to active members
It can be intimidating to talk to upperclassmen, but they want to help you and get to know you better. If you have any questions about the house, don’t be afraid to ask. If you just want someone to talk to, ask them to coffee. It might turn out that you have a lot in common with them and they could even end up being your roommate, best friend, or even one day your bridesmaid. There is no need to be nervous; these girls are your sisters now.
3. Don’t forget about your friends
It can be really exciting to be a part of a house and it is easy to get caught up in being around your sisters, but don’t forget about all your friends. In most cases, the friends you make in your dorms and first semester classes don’t follow you to a house. You should try to make time for your friends. Make plans for dinner, even if it is just at the dining hall, or even just offer to study together. If you start to drift apart while you are still living in the dorms together, imagine how hard it will be to stay friends after you move in with a whole other group of people. One of the big advantages of a small school is you can keep those relationships with girls in different houses, but you still have to put in the effort.