For a lot of my life, I was against joining a sorority. It wasn’t in a judgmental, “I’m not a stereotypical sorority girl” way, but it just didn’t seem to be my vibe. My passions and hobbies have changed over the years, alongside my perspectives on the world, leading me to inevitably join a sorority.Â
I think Greek life is right for even the students who abhor it. The world of fraternities and sororities is so different from the world of academia. Joining has so many benefits, although it isn’t ideal for everyone.
My mom was in a Penn State sorority in the 90s, which initially made me want to follow in her footsteps. Greek life was drastically different. She lived on campus all four years, two of which were in her sorority dorm.
I heard nothing but great things from her experience, which ultimately was my deciding factor to rush. I went into the rush process blindly, not knowing many girls or the rankings of each chapter at the school. My best piece of advice going through rush is to have this mindset.
Not knowing anything helped me end up in the sorority that I belonged in, with the sisters that I so dearly love. Had I focused on rankings or changed my personality, the process would have left me in a chapter that wasn’t right for me. To be completely frank, the rankings mean absolutely nothing, and you are not less of a person for ending up in a “lower” house.
People who aren’t in Greek life often view it as superficial and status-enhancing, although that’s a completely personal choice to view it as such. There is a house for every girl who sticks through rush, whether they initially wanted it or not. I know girls who are happier than ever in a chapter they never considered wanting.
Once I reached Bid Day, after loving both of my houses for preference, the after-party was extremely overwhelming. Everyone seemed to know each other, which made me start to question if I made the right decision. Luckily, I met half of my current friend group on Bid Day.
As someone who didn’t have a big girl friend group the first semester of college, these girls were exactly what I needed. Our group extended out to mutuals we had met in class or in passing. I was so fortunate to meet my future bridesmaids early on, making me so sure of my choice to join a sorority.Â
Immediately after being initiated, we were given exclusive access to events that wouldn’t be accessible without being a part of Greek life. Mixers, formals or frat weddings were held almost every night of the week, as a school that prides itself on its fraternities and sororities. If you love meeting people every time you leave your apartment or being connected to a whole new world, the opportunity to rush is something you cannot pass up.
Another plus for me was instantly being a part of THON. I hadn’t joined a committee in my first semester and didn’t know what to expect for the dance marathon itself. This was a great way to be involved without sitting in the upper bowl, still raising money and seeing how much effort goes into such an amazing cause firsthand.
After THON and big little reveal (the best time ever), parents’ weekend rounded out the semester. Seeing my mom so excited to relive her glory days solidified my reason for following in her footsteps. Joining an organization that truly cares about you and makes you a part of something is so genuinely special.
My freshman year roommate never rushed, and she still enjoys every day at Penn State. You don’t need Greek life to make friends or have a good time. It enhanced my Penn State experience in so many ways, and I encourage everyone to try, even if you realize it’s not for you.