If you asked me a few years ago if I ever planned on joining a sorority, the answer would have been a quick “no.” Not because I had anything against Greek Life, but mainly because I never really gave it much thought. The only thing I thought I knew about sororities were the stereotypical ideas that movies and TV shows make them out to be—which now I realize, couldn’t be further from the truth.
Fast forward to my freshman year of college, everything I thought I knew completely changed. That first semester of living hours away from home and not knowing anyone was tough; especially since it seemed like everyone else came to college with friends. I spent the majority of my time by myself and rarely left my room. In high school I was always so involved, so suddenly having all this free time was new to me and became a major adjustment. By winter break I was ready to transfer — I even started filling out some applications. However, I knew sorority recruitment was right around the corner and for the first time ever, I really started to consider it.
Recruitment weekend happened and I was surprised with how well it went. I remember getting my bid, and for the first time in a while I was excited about something at school again. Luckily, my second semester was nothing like the first, I had new structure to my schedule, found myself leaving my dorm all the time, and meeting so many new people. I loved being a part of not only a group, but a sisterhood.
Looking back, I can’t picture what my college experience would look like without Greek Life. I’ve gained so many experiences, met people I never would have otherwise, and learned about and contributed to worthy causes. The opportunities to gain more responsibility and leadership opportunities are endless. It’s safe to say that joining a sorority is what kept me from transferring and transformed my college experience. I’ll always be grateful and super proud of myself that I decided to take a chance and step outside of my comfort zone.