There’s no denying that Greek life has made its way to the grounds of college campuses across the country. While it’s proven to be a positive way to meet like-minded people, some of us don’t particularly see ourselves fitting in with a sorority. Also, let’s not ignore the fact that they are expensive, which can add to the stress that school already places on our shoulders. While thousands of girls have found their home away from home in Greek life, that does not mean that you won’t find your place just because you decided to sit out during Recruitment Week. Here are four ways to make sure you find your “girl gang,” even if you decide not to join a sorority.
1. Join an Intramural or Club Sports Team
One of the best ways to meet girls and build awesome friendships is to try out for a sports team. Whether or not you make the team, you’ll meet a ton of girls who are interested in the same sport as you, just by going to tryouts. If club sports are too much of a time commitment, make an intramural team. This is exciting because you can make a team for nearly every sport. UMass has groups for co-ed flag football, ultimate Frisbee, rowing, and many more. The time commitment to intramural sports is less intense, you have the opportunity to meet a bunch of new people, and you even stand a chance at winning an intramural championship! These are taken very seriously at UMass, just saying.
2. Join RSOs and Clubs that Actually Interest You
This may take some trial and error, but think about what activities or subjects interest you, and then join clubs where you enjoy being involved. A lot of adults tell young college students to get as involved as possible during their college career, but make sure that you involve yourself in organizations that are important to you.
If you are a business major and you like your classes, join UMass’s Women in Business club. If you love event planning, join the University Programming Council. If you want to share your love for writing with others, apply to be a writer for Her Campus (shameless plug). The point is that when you join clubs that you are interested in instead of joining anything and everything, you will meet people that enjoy the same things you do. This gives you something to talk about and bond over. And after your club meetings, don’t be afraid to ask the girl next to you to grab dinner! Everyone loves new friends, am I right?
3. Go to a New Workout Class
I’ve learned this method through my older sister. When she was trying to stay in shape during college, she would always try new workout classes at the campus gym. After she found classes and instructors that she liked, she made sure to go to the same class every week. As my sister continued to do this, she noticed the familiar faces of those who stuck with the same class and instructor. Eventually, they became a close group of friends and would always grab breakfast or dinner after classes. Even if you are not the fittest girl in the room, showing up every week makes you memorable, and is a good way to make friends.
4. Apply for a Job on Campus
Who doesn’t like the idea of making friends and money? Once you get settled on campus, check out if any departments, stores, or dining halls are hiring! One of the greatest benefits of getting a job on campus is that they understand you are a full-time student and have a lot on your plate. The shifts are relatively short and the amount of times you work per week is flexible. Some of the most popular on-campus jobs are those at the Rec Center, Visitors Center, and the four UMass dining halls. By going to work, you become closer to your co-workers and have the opportunity to build new friendships.
Don’t let the pressure of joining a sorority push you into joining a group that you don’t feel is true to you. Aside from the ones I’ve listed, there are countless ways to make friends in college without joining Greek Life. College is about growing up and finding your true friends, so do that in whatever way fits you best.