As a freshman walking to class, it’s extremely easy to get distracted by all of the different things to look at. Whether you are lost, trying to find that ridiculously far and random building you have class in, or simply admiring the view of Mt. Nittany, we encounter many distractions amongst our way. In addition to such sights, during this time of year many collegiate students are sporting a particular uniform: their letters.
As students are starting to get settled into the fall semester and signing up for various clubs, it is nearly impossible to ignore the Greek letters on men and women on campus. If the letters have caught your eye and you are wondering if Panhellenic sorority recruitment is right for you, here is everything you need to know before registration closes on September 16th.
Before the process begins, the most important advice is to keep an open mind. There are 19 panhellenic sororities and you will meet many diverse women in each one. By making connections with as many people as possible in the various rounds, as well as girls in your “pi-chi” groups (alphabetically organized groups), you could be creating great friendships with people who could potentially be your new sisters!
Although time-consuming, the formal recruitment process is kept interesting and unique with the different rounds over the 10 day process which includes the following:
Open houses: Taking place over three days where potential new members meet all 19 sororities and dress casually, wearing matching “sorority recruitment” shirts.
First rounds: Narrowed down to 14 chapters, each sorority will inform PNM’s about their philanthropic causes. Little activities like making bracelets or thinking of inspirational quotes will help spread awareness.
Second rounds: Visiting a maximum of eight sororities, each chapter will show potential new members unique video documentaries that provide an inside look into their sisterhood.
Preference night: With only three chapters left, this night is an intimate and elegant night shared with your potential sisters that will be remembered forever. With suites decorated beautifully and classy h’orderves served, potential new members decide which sisterhood they want to be a part of.
The bid that lies inside each envelope is invaluable and marks the start of collegiate sorority life. Women all over the country join sororities for various reasons, but there is one key component in particular: the desire for sisterhood. Although the weeklong process may include some tears, stress, and monotonous conversations, the sacred bond one shares with their sisterhood upon opening their bid is irreplaceable.
For more information please visit www.pennstatephc.org