With sorority recruitment about to kick-off, many questions are running through all of our minds. What charities are each sorority involved with? What do you wear? Should you curl or straighten your hair? What in the world is a Pi-Chi? Who is in charge of all of this? Well, meet Dina Liberatore—you know those girls that help you vote electronically at the end of every other night? They’re the members of the Panhellenic Board, and Dina is their advisor. Yup, she’s got a lot of power, and for those of you only now getting to know her, whether this is your first time going through recruitment, or you’re on the other side recruiting, she’s got a little bit of advice:
HC: How did you decide to get involved with work as Penn State’s Panhellenic adviser?
Dina: I’ve actually been involved in the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life since I was a graduate student at Penn State. My assistantship was working in this office, so I fell in love with it early on. Our student leaders in fraternities and sororities are so dedicated and passionate, and that enthusiasm definitely rubs off on everyone who has the privilege to work with them. These organizations do amazing work every day in helping members to grow and develop and in their service to the University and community. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?
HC: What is some advice you would offer to new students as they prepare for recruitment this week?
Dina: Keep an open mind! Don’t let stereotypes and what other people tell you influence your decision. Joining a sorority is a really personal decision and if you keep an open mind, you may find that you click with groups you hadn’t considered before. Sorority membership is a wonderful experience no matter what group you are in and the benefits last far beyond your college years, so it’s worth it to get involved with any of our 19 NPC groups!
Plan in advance. Recruitment is a time-consuming process, so do as much homework as you can ahead of time. Study for tests, write papers, and work on projects early so that you don’t feel overwhelmed at the end of the process.
HC: What advice would you give to your Panhellenic Board girls as they get ready for this week?
Dina: Honestly, I don’t think I could offer them any advice because they are already doing an amazing job! From the Panhellenic Executive Board to the Pi Chis (Panhellenic Counselors) to the Chapter Presidents and all our members, everyone is doing exactly what they need to be doing. Formal recruitment is a huge undertaking, but it is also a well-oiled machine because of the leadership of our students!
HC: Now that you have a few thousand girls under your wing, what is one thing you would recommend as they move forward with this year?
Dina: Visit me! Whether you hold an office in your organization or you are a general member, I love hearing about students’ experiences, ideas, and suggestions. Don’t be afraid to stop by 215 HUB to meet the FSL staff and our Exec Board. I hope that all of our sorority members can say that they have at least one meaningful relationship with a faculty or staff member and if I can be that person for someone, I would be thrilled!
HC: how many girls are going through recruitment this year?
Dina: 1539!