Rachel Serfling was my first friend at Miami. As freshman roomies in Emerson Hall, we often talked about what we wanted to do over the next for years. From the moment it first came up, it was very evident how much she wanted to get involved in Greek life. Little did I know she would end up as president of her chapter! I am so proud of her accomplishments, and HC wishes her the best of luck in her future endeavors!
HC: Why did you want to be AOII’s president?
RS: The main reason was simply a passion for my sorority. I can easily say that joining Alpha Omicron Pi has been one of the best decisions I have made since stepping foot on this campus, and I saw a great opportunity to strengthen my leadership abilities. Miami really has a fantastic Greek system, and the pride in our organizations as well as the positive results we often accomplish is something I couldn’t help but want to be more involved in.
HC: What do you enjoy most about being president?
RS: My favorite aspect is being able to constantly have a view of the “big picture” of how a chapter functions, as I usually know what each member of my executive board is working on, sort of like pieces of a puzzle. I have also really enjoyed the various Panhellenic, IFC, and NPHC events where I have gotten to know many of the other presidents of various Greek organizations here at Miami that I might have never crossed paths with otherwise.
HC: How do you manage being president on top of all your school work?
RS: As a double major in architecture and psychology, it is safe to say I consistently have a steady stream of coursework. I have found the usual time management techniques (such as making lists, prioritizing, etc.) very useful, however, what has truly benefited me the most is getting close to others in my classes, especially architecture. I have also been fortunate enough to have many of my AOII sisters in my classes along the way. They make great study partners or are there to take breaks for a coffee run when I get too stressed. Ultimately though, I feel it is all about being flexible. Of course it is important to plan and schedule well in advance, but things change at a moments notice. You just have to be willing to adjust your course and carry on.
HC: What advice would you give about the coming Sprite Dates?
RS: My biggest piece of advice to anyone attending any of the Sprite Dates is to ask questions! The members who are already in that sorority will of course want to ask questions and try to get to know you, but you should also use this time as a way to get to know their chapter a little better. It is also a great practice for recruitment in the winter, so I highly recommend attending as many as you can fit in your schedule!
HC: What are your plans for the future? Has leadership at AOII helped you achieve goals?
RS: My ideal career would involve aspects from both of my majors, and at this point, I think that means going to graduate school immediately after graduation. I have wanted to become an architect since I was a child, but now I am considering pursuing a PhD in Architecture and doing research instead. Although my path is still not clear, and that uncertainty can sometimes be a little unnerving, I have the confidence to keep an open mind thanks to my position in AOII. Throughout my term, I have not only learned a great deal about working with other people, planning events, communication skills, facilitating meetings, but most importantly I have gotten to know myself so much better – and I could not have asked for anything more!