Novemberfest is this weekend and recruitment is fast approaching, and many freshies are asking themselves, “to
rush? Or not to rush? That is the question.” The good news is that Her Campus Emory is here to help ameliorate your woes. This is your guide to answering the question: Should I go through Recruitment 2012? Keep in mind I am a tad biased, but consider these ideas in making your decision!
A common misconception: “It makes no sense to join an organization where you are ‘buying’ friends.” I hear women say this all the time. And they’re right! Why in the world would anyone pay for friendship? That obviously defeats the purpose of true, genuine camaraderie. Did you ever think, well then why are there over seven hundred women involved in Emory Greek life? I will tell you right here and now: these women did not join their respective Greek organizations to guarantee themselves a social life. Rather, here are the real reasons to join a sorority:
Pros.
New Leadership Opportunities
Sororities provide a vast terrain for exploring new leadership opportunities. While Greeks are involved across
campus in multiple organizations (name one and I’ll drop names), the Greek community offers leadership positions within each individual Sorority council, the Inter-Sorority council, and even liaison positions that connect Greeks with multiple community service projects and campus organizations. The catch is this: once you join a sorority, you must seek these opportunities and take full advantage of them. Like everything else in the world, you will have to do at least a little legwork to find your leadership and involvement niche in the Greek community.
Best Social Events
Sororities help organize some of the best social events you’ll probably ever experience. Of course there is a social
perk, it’s an added bonus. Parties are always more fun when all of your friends are in attendance. Most sorority functions are planned weeks ahead of time. Each sorority social chair (see leadership opportunities) plans events, negotiates food catering, organizes guest lists, searches for perfect venues, and makes call after call to ensure a smooth, fun night. In the end, sorority events are pure bliss.
Life Membership
Joining a sorority means you’re a sister for life. Women join and work toward a common goal, which usually
include leadership, community service, self-improvement and growth, and lifelong friendship. It may sound silly now, but there is an unspoken bond between sorority sisters that truly unites all women in that organization, regardless of where they were first initiated. Sorority connections and opportunities are forever. Again, though, you must utilize those connections. They’re there, so why not?
Cons
Sororities are Expensive.
Sororities are expensive. While scholarships are available each semester from the Inter-Sorority council and
even some sororities themselves, dues are still sky high. Before joining, explore all your financial aid options. There are many within the Greek community. I can guarantee you – women want you in their organization because they love you, not your money. They will probably find a way to help you lessen the financial burden to something more manageable. Just ask!
Sororities are what you make of them.
Things can go bad, and they do. But ultimately it’s your choice, not the Greek System’s.
Recruitment is grueling.
But everyone is in it together, and clearly girls make it through every year despite the cold, wet, and snowy
weather. Just remember a warm coat, sensible outfits, and an umbrella!
Novemberfest is the best way to see what you’re in for come January, and if you choose to go through the process, you’re bound to make new friends. Whether or not you choose to accept a bid from a sorority at the end of the process, it’s worth a try. You have nothing to lose! If you think it’s just not your scene, that’s totally fine too! Emory is diverse and the opportunities are endless.