If you’re in a Greek organization, then there’s a strong possiblity you’ve heard this Campus Celeb’s name before. Lindsay Thomas’ claim to fame is that she is the President of the governing council of all 12 sororities on Clemson’s campus. Talk about a hefty responsibility! Her Campus Clemson got the chance to interview the busy student, and get to know more about her as a person and her role as Panhellenic President!
Her Campus Clemson: What is your hometown, major, and year?
Lindsay Thomas: I’m from Olney, MD, I’m majoring in Psychology with a Management minor, and I am a senior!
What are you involved in on campus?
At one point, too much probably! But I wouldn’t have it any other way! As a senior, I am trying to cut back on a few things and make sure I soak up every little bit of Clemson I can before graduation. I told myself I needed to make more time to complete the Clemson bucket list (50 Things To Do Before You Graduate)! Currently, I am the Panhellenic Council President and am a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, Blue Key Honors Society, Order of Omega Greek Honors Society, Omicron Delta Kappa Honors Society and am a Lead Now Scholar. Formerly, I served as Vice President of Panhellenic, Freshman Council Director on CUSG, Student Alumni Council, and Resident Assistant for Kappa Kappa Gamma.
Why did you want to become President of Panhellenic and how did you get there?
One of the main reasons I was interested in becoming the Panhellenic Council President was because of the “bigger picture” format of it. Panhellenic is the governing council of our Panhellenic chapters. Being a governing council president provides a unique experience. You interact with more than just your respective chapter, but also connect with the 12 Panhellenic chapters and other four councils. Additionally, as a representative for Panhellenic, you work closely with other organizations on campus, administration, and staff.
Getting the opportunities to work with so many student leaders and inspiring faculty and staff members was extremely appealing to me. Although working with student leaders was what was one of the things that attracted me to this position, it is also one of the hardest parts of the position. It is hard to balance a working relationship with your peers. One experience that prepared me for this was being the resident assistant for Kappa Kappa Gamma my sophomore year. In that position I had to work with RAs from other chapters, as well as learn how to regulate housing policies among my pledge class.
What is one of your favorite parts about being President of Panhellenic?
My favorite thing about President is that I can genuinely say I have a friend in all 12 chapters here at Clemson. That goes beyond just my relationship with the presidents. I have been able to meet so many Panhellenic women and develop friendships I really treasure.
What sorts of things have you learned from this experience?
I have learned so much – the list is endless! I have gotten a lot of professional experience – I have learned to work with a variety of leadership styles, with administration, and with my peers, and have gained communication skills. Another important thing I learned was not to lose myself. I think as college students, we do this a lot! It is so easy to get overwhelmed, whether it is with schoolwork or leadership positions, and not that those things aren’t important, but I have learned you can’t sacrifice yourself for them. It is so important to be able to find a balance and ask for help when you need it!
What is the most annoying stereotype you hear about Greek students?
I hate hearing that sorority women are dumb. Whether our peers or professors are making the assumption, the stereotype that we aren’t as smart because we wear letters, drives me crazy! In the spring, Panhellenic women had an overall GPR average of a 3.46. The Panhellenic chapter with the highest GPR had a 3.57! All 12 of our chapters were above the non-affiliated women’s average of a 3.25. As a community, we emphasis the importance of academics and hold each other accountable to the high standard we set. We really pride ourselves on our academic success.
Where would you like to see yourself 10 years from now?
Happy and healthy surrounded by people I love! I hope to have completed my Masters in Exercise Physiology as well as the Health Coach Training Program from Institute for Integrative Nutrition. I would love to have my own practice opened where the goal is to collaboratively train both a client’s mind and body.
What is your favorite part about Clemson?
I know this is many people’s favorite thing and is something I think we all have a hard time putting into words because it is what we only understand because we are Tigers. It is when people on the outside say “What is it with you Clemson people?”
My favorite thing about Clemson is when you become a Tiger, you become a part of something bigger than yourself. You are welcomed to the Clemson family. The ties that this Clemson family has to each other are indescribable. Whenever you meet someone wearing a Clemson ring, you have an unspoken, but mutually understood connection based on the passion and pride we all share in this university.
What is your favorite… bar downtown, season of the year, and mexican restaurant?
Bar: Wingin’ It (especially when the Jimmy Fisher Trio is playing!)
Season: Fall, especially in the south! The weather is still warm enough, but you get those great fall days for football, riding boots, and pumpkin spice coffee.
Mexican Restaurant: El Jimador
If your apartment in Clemson was burning down, what three things would you want to save?
My iPhone (I’m an addict!), my Clemson Ring, and my roommates!