Rachel Boothroyd
Hometown: Clive, IA
Major: Psychology
Year: Sophmore
When I first met Rachel during Bid Day last fall at the Delta Zeta house, I was immediatly struck by her great sense of humor and ability to talk to everyone and make everyone around her feel comfortable. As I got to know her better, I saw how passionate she was about Delta Zeta and about helping out other women. After getting her as my Big, I was able to see more of her compassion towards others and willingness to give her help to anyone who needed it, whenever they needed it. She has always struck me as a natural leader; people defintely value her advice and opinions and come to her when they have any problems. I was curious to find out how that leadership has affected her college experience and what advice she has for others trying to get involved or hold positions of leadership.
What things are you involved with on Campus?
I am a member of Delta Zeta, Rho Lambda and Psi Chi.
I’ve heard about Rho Lambda before, what exactly is it?
Rho Lambda is an honors sorority that promotes leadership and women’s empowerment.
Along with being in Rho Lambda, how has being in a sorority changed your college experience?
Being in Delta Zeta has changed my whole mindset towards leadership. I was always afraid of being in a leadership position, but then I joined a sorority. I found that I cared more about my chapter being successful than I cared about avoiding hardships that come with a position of power. Delta Zeta has also impacted my friendships. Through Delta Zeta I have met some life long friends. It definitely makes college easier having a strong support group.
What made you want to be on the exec board of Delta Zeta?
I am just very passionate about Delta Zeta, and I want to see my fellow sisters succeed academically. Many people just need to know that someone is invested in them and that small act will help them strive to reach their full potential.
What is it like being the Academics chair? What challenges do you face?
It is really rewarding, especially when you see your sisters improve or when they proudly tell you they got an A on a test or something like that. It is challenging to talk about such a sensitive subject like grades to your peers, especially when you’re in a position of power over them. It is also challenging to brainstorm ideas that will improve the chapter GPA when grades are a very individual thing where people have to motivate themselves.
How has being involved on campus impacted you?
Being involved has helped me grow as not only a person but as a leader. As a freshman I didn’t have a lot of direction, but then I joined a sorority, and I knew I was where I was supposed to be. It gave me a close group of friends and opportunities to develop my leadership skills.
What advice would you give other students about joining things on campus?
Joining things on campus is a great way to meet people, get leadership opportunities and network. I recommend doing it as early as you can. Don’t be afraid to join things your freshman year and definitely don’t be afraid to try for a leadership position. You’re never too young to get involved!