Greek life isn’t for everyone — and during my freshman year, I didn’t think it was for me, either.
I’m not a peppy, extroverted girl and never in my life did I think I would ever become a member of a sorority…until now!
My Pledge Class! (Source: Dana Weiss)
It happened! That’s me, in the very back row on the left, totally overwhelmed that in one night I was greeted by (what felt like) thousands of girls for a welcoming party. I’m officially a Delta Gamma girl of the Rutgers University chapter, and I’m still in disbelief!
Why did I finally decide to join Greek life? Well, during my freshman year at Rutgers, I was totally overwhelmed, like most college freshmen. I desperately needed to find a community within Rutgers. Thankfully, I discovered Her Campus Rutgers during my freshman year, and now in my sophomore year, I’m officially in Greek life. I strongly recommend rushing if you feel as if you’re “lost” in school: Greek life can make a large university such as Rutgers feel incredibly smaller.
Now, I’m only a new member of Greek life and have (so far) barely experienced what it means to be a sister of Delta Gamma. I can tell you this, though: I’m so, so excited for what the future will bring- from the Big & Little sister program, to actively participating in community service, retreats, hangouts with my girls, and simply becoming involved with Greek life and Rutgers as a whole, now more than ever before.
(Source: Dana Weiss)
At Rutgers, freshmen aren’t allowed to become a pledge in the fall; instead, their “rush” occurs in the springtime, also known as formal rush. I skipped that entirely, last year, simply because I was terrified. Honestly! The last thing I wanted to do was prance around in heels during January (the “springtime”), and dedicate my weekends to rush when I was slammed with exams around that particular time.
There is also informal rush that occurs during the fall semester, which is when sophomores and other upperclassmen who passed on or missed formal rush can rush. I recommend informal rush, 100%, for girls who are searching for an incredibly relaxed, easy-going rush week. There are no heels and dresses required; the majority of the girls wear a cute blouse, jeans, and sandals. Another important fact to note: Not every single sorority participates in informal rush, which I didn’t mind. But, if you’re a girl who is looking to explore each and every one, perhaps spring rush truly is your best way to go.
An awesome video of Delta Gamma’s Bid Day! (Source: Dana Weiss)
I visited only three chapters at Rutgers, who held their “Meet the Sisters” events in their sorority houses, typically spaced out a few days or more in-between, usually at around 9 or so at night. At each sorority, I was greeted by their sisters, (who may scream and sing in your face, so be prepared!), and quickly, once I entered the house, I sat down with a sister, and our conversations began. You may speak to multiple girls within one night, (it’s okay if you don’t remember their names!), for a little bit over an hour.
And, of course, it’s intimidating at first! Especially a girl like me, who trips over her words during conversations and if I’m talking with a stranger, God forbid I don’t have a conversation pointer. Once I got into the groove of informal rush, though, I felt more incredibly relaxed. Remember: You need to take these conversations to your advantage, in order to see which sorority you feel you “connect” with the most. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
How did I decide on Delta Gamma? Honestly, I can’t give you a straight answer. I’m very indecisive: I truly, truly loved meeting all 3 chapters during informal rush, I’ve had wonderful conversations with many girls (of course, I forget all of your names), but for me, during Delta Gamma’s events, it sort of simply “clicked”. I knew in my heart that if I received a bid from them, I would accept it in a heartbeat.
(Source: Dana Weiss)
Trust me, rush can seem intimidating, or even daunting, but in the end, it’s worth it! I’m so happy I have found my “home away from home” and I’m so excited for the future!