It’s that time of year again, and the boys on campus are terrified! Clusters of girls dressed to impress, clicking their heels around campus eagerly waiting outside each sorority house to be greeted by screaming and chanting sorority girls ready to welcome them into (what I consider) a lifelong bond of sisterhood and loyalty. Let’s be very real, besides all of the cheesy, girly, sisterly stuff, recruitment can be EXTREMELY intimidating to many, especially if you have no idea what you’re getting into. Ladies, please pause your twenty minute, “What to Expect During Sorority Recruitment” YouTube videos that I know you’re watching, because I’m going to break it down for you.
- DO wear comfortable clothing.
Don’t show up in your Nike sweatpants with mac and cheese stains or Lulu leggings and don’t bring out your 6-inch heels. Sandals will become your best friend! Wear outfits that help you feel confident and show off your personal style. Sundresses, a cute top and skirt, or jump suits are all great choices.
2. DON`T be someone else.
It will come back to bite you! You don’t want to end up in a sorority with women who do not reflect your interests and values. Be authentic and true to yourself throughout the whole process, and you will end up in the best sorority for you!
3. Do try to stand out!
The days are very long and you will be exhausted from talking to so many members of different sororities. You should be you, but think about what makes you memorable. Talk about accomplishments that you are proud of and your strong skill sets. Don’t be afraid to show off your best self!
4. DON`T have your mind set on just one sorority.
Go into recruitment with an open mind and give each sorority a fair chance. Don’t close your options down by listening to what others say, or what your friends want. This will make the process harder and you’ll never truly know if you connected with your best match.
5. DO trust the process and be positive.
If you think you had a great connection with a certain sorority and you don’t get asked back, don’t panic! You will hear this repeatedly- but the process REALLY is mutual, and so much (insert very confusing and technical words here) goes into matching each girl with the best fit. So remain positive throughout the process and know that what’s meant to be will be!
6. DON`T bring up inappropriate conversations.
This might seem like a given, but make sure you’re keeping it classy and not trashy! You don’t need to talk about how excited you are to go out and party on weekends because that’s not what members want to hear. They want to get to know all the great things about YOU and why you see yourself as a strong fit as a new member.
7. DO be prepared and know what to expect
You don’t need to rehearse your conversations or come in as an expert, but know what you’re getting into! Be ready to talk about yourself ALL day, but also come with your own questions! It helps to remember that you are considering which sororities are a great fit, as much as they are considering if you are a match. The members want to impress you just as much as you want to impress them. Consider asking what members have gained from joining their sorority, or how they get involved with philanthropy.
8. DON`T listen to stereotypes.
Joining Greek life isn’t paying for friends, an easy way to get into parties, or an excuse to wear Greek letters on campus. There are many negative connotations with sororities. Sororities are about amazing philanthropy work, lifelong connections, and a home away from home while trying to navigate the crazy, confusing, and chaotic next four years of your college career!
So don’t stress too much, be yourself, and have fun with it! At the end of the day if you decide sorority life is not for you, there are so many other great ways to get involved in college. If you’re about to go through the recruitment process, just know you’ve got this! I cannot wait for you to find your second home!