Growing up, I often heard my mom, aunt, and older sister talk about the times they spent in their sororities. All the philanthropic events, sisterhood programs, formal and semi-formal dances: There was never a dull moment.
Between the countless leadership experiences available and lifelong friendships, why not consider joining a fraternity or sorority organization? When I started my freshman year of college, I knew I wanted to attend a university that had sorority organizations.
When I first joined my sorority, people around me would always tell me how the organization was not just four years, but it was for life. Now, a year after graduating, I can proudly say they were right.
With all the unfamiliarity that comes with starting college, having an instant connection with individuals like yourself makes the transition alot easier.
Together, you and your sorority and fraternity pledge class will learn the ins and outs of navigating college together while experiencing many firsts.
Greek life can provide many benefits for members, but a primary advantage of being in a sorority or fraternity in college is having a place to call home.
Being miles away from home, it was nice to have a support system through the good times and the bad. For example, if I did well on a test, I knew I had sisters ready to go celebrate. If I did not perform at my best, I had sisters to bring ice cream over and make me feel better.
No matter if you are in a sorority or fraternity, both organizations offer a diverse group of individuals ranging in ages 18-22.
For example, some people were religious, some people were atheists, and some people were in the organization to amp up their social lives. It really depends on the individual.
The two most popular benefits these organizations provide are
professional and social connections.
1987 University of Florida Alumna, Corinne Rosner, believes that being a sorority alumna is a great way to build up a network of professional and personal connections.
“I have had friends for life who have stood by me through it all. Even people with whom I did not stay in contact, when I ran into them/saw them we had an immediate connection and affiliation because of the sorority,” Corinne said.
According to writer Neil Kokemuller from SeattlePi, a local Seattle Newspaper, a sorority or fraternity is a social community where students engage in bonding and fun activities.
“This provides a supportive, homelike environment which helps ease
the transition into school and allows for growth and independence
during school,” Kokemuller said.
1984 Davidson College alumnae, Andy Rock, believes that being in a
fraternity opened up the world for him socially.
“Being in a fraternity allowed me to get to know interesting people from different places, and through them, we got to know the places. I felt like I was being supported through my brothers and the connections we made through the years,” Rock said.
Corinne agrees. “No matter where the person went to school or the year they went, we still have this connection,” She said.
Not only does being in a Greek organization help you socially or professionally, but it allows individuals to stay up to date with the world around them.
“It has enabled me to be in contact with people from the community and resources that otherwise I would not know about,” Rock said.
In my three and half years of being in a sorority, I never thought that it would leave such an impact on my life. Not only was I given multiple leadership experiences and memories for a lifetime, but I have made numerous connections to help me in my graduate and adult life today.
Even though I am miles away from my friends and now working on another degree, I have wonderful memories I hold so dearly.
For families deciding on college choices or if you should be a part of the Greek community at your school, think about all the added benefits and experiences coming your way.