I remember clearly coming into my freshman year wanting to get really involved on campus. This was the goal; however, expectations always seem to trump reality. I started off my freshman year as an awkward, shy person, struggling to find a place to fit in on campus. I struck out when trying to join clubs during that very first semester. I was starting to realize I was getting lonely and restless with all the time I had on my hands.
Fast-forward to spring semester of my freshman year (almost a year ago!). My roommate had suggested to me that we rush a service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, together just because it looked kind of interesting. Even though I didn’t know much about it, I decided to check it out, thinking I had nothing to lose. I wasn’t that involved on campus anyway, and I figured I would give Alpha Phi Omega a chance. I was immediately welcomed by some of the nicest people I’ve ever met, who came together on the principles of leadership, friendship and service.
Looking back now, joining APO is definitely a choice I will never regret. In the year since I rushed, pledged and was initiated into the service fraternity, my life has definitely changed for the better. No longer am I that shy, awkward freshman I was a year ago, struggling to adjust on campus. Alpha Phi Omega has shaped me into a more outgoing and confident person who cares more about being able to make a difference.
Being in a service organization definitely gave me a sense of fulfillment, and I felt (and still feel) as though we were making an impact with our volunteer work. Doing service makes me feel like I’m working towards being a better person overall. It’s always a wonderful feeling being able to see the difference you can make in your community.
Not only do I get a sense of fulfillment from being a part of APO, but I also have come out of my shell because of joining. I have met so many wonderful, awesome, funny and all-around great people, and it’s safe to say that I’ve made some really good friends. I’m more social now, and I feel an overall sense of belonging. I’ve also gained a lot of self-confidence, enough to feel motivated to take on a leadership position to try and better myself as a student leader.
Joining a service organization on campus was one of the best things I have ever done. From meeting such a diverse group of people to finding out that I have the potential to become a leader, I have learned so much since I joined a year ago. I’ve benefitted from it a lot, and I whole-heartedly advocate for everyone to try and find their niche on campus. Whether it’s a service fraternity, Greek Life, clubs based on your interests, or really any club available to you at Pitt, it wouldn’t hurt to give it a try, especially if you are struggling to have a more active presence on campus. Yes, it takes time and a little trial and error, but the results may ultimately be satisfying and have a really positive impact on your time here!
Photo Credit: Author’s own images