As a freshman who wasn’t dorming in her first year of college, my options to meet new friends were limited. I was determined to join as many clubs and organizations as possible. When I saw that the sororities at San Jose State University were recruiting new members for their Fall semester, I decided to “Go Greek!” The only problem: I had little to no knowledge of Greek life. After Bid Day, the last day of the recruitment weekend, I compiled a list of things that I wish I knew before starting this process.
1. Sorority Girls Are NOT How They Are Usually Represented As
When you meet and chat with some of the sorority sisters, they may ask why you are interested in joining a sorority. If your best answer is meeting boys and going to parties, the rest of your conversation will most likely be very awkward. The girls want to see how passionate you are about serving your community and making lifelong friendships; Those are their real values, not boys and booze. In addition, the stereotype that sorority girls are mean and judgemental is false. The sisters you meet are just as nervous to meet new people like you! Be honest with both the sororities you meet and yourself. Would you really want to be around people with whom you have to hide parts of who you are?
2. Have an Open Mind
It’s good to follow the sororities on social media and make a list of which ones you’re interested in! However, don’t limit yourself to just those houses based on what their Instagram feeds look like or how good their names sound. Doing so could prevent you from joining the sorority you belong in, especially if it’s the one you least expect to be a part of. Trust the process; the sorority you end up in is where you are meant to be.
3. Don’t Pity Yourself
Aside from talking about their philanthropy or favorite events throughout the year, each sorority wants to see if they can connect with you as a potential new sister. When you get your hopes up about a certain house, it can be crushing if they don’t want to meet you again after. It’s easy to be swallowed up in disappointment, but try to steer away from thinking negatively. This isn’t in any way a reflection of you! Think of it this way: you’re just one house closer to the one that sees your potential and appreciates exactly who you are.
Greek life can be overwhelming and intimidating, but can also be the source of all your best college memories! These tips will help you in your search for the perfect sorority. You got this!