Going Greek was a decision that changed my life forever in many positive ways. However, the question of whether or not to go Greek isn’t an easy decision. It’s a considerable time commitment, money is a factor and for some it just isn’t the right fit. With that said, Greek life can be so rewarding and can provide memories that last you a lifetime. Here are some reasons why I chose to go for it and go Greek.
Philanthropy
In high school, I loved volunteering. It was always something I was involved in. Being in Greek life, I knew that each chapter had an organization that they raised money for. I was ecstatic about the weekly service events and raising money for a greater cause.
Family at college
I was involved in a sports team in high school, my team was always my family, and I wanted to recreate that in college. They were right when they said that your chapter will be your “home away from home.” Natalie Beener, a member of the Greek community on campus said, “I went to a recruitment event on my birthday, and everyone sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to me and brought me a candle. That was the best way to spend my first birthday away from home.” It’s so nice to have a safe haven. Not being around family while away at college, I find comfort in knowing I have “sisters” to talk to.
Meeting People
Sometimes meeting people in college is difficult, but joining Greek life made it easier for me to meet so many people at the U! Usually people only think about meeting over 100 sisters, but they don’t realize how strong the U’s Greek community is. I meet members in other sororities and fraternities all the time because of exchanges. An exchange is when 2 or more chapters in the Greek community get together to have fun events such as laser tag, bowling and Valleyfair. There are other greek events on campus such as formals, date parties and philanthropy events. Because of these events, I have met some of my best friends. It’s awesome to meet someone and have that common interest of being in the Greek community–it’s a great conversation starter.
Academics
I also joined Greek life because I knew it would push me academically. Chapters have minimum GPAs you must achieve. Also, there are “study hours” most days of the week around campus where you can have a quiet place to study. It also helps knowing I have girls in my chapter who may have taken a class I’m struggling in and can help me. I always have a sister willing to go to the library with me and walk me back when it’s late at night. Seeing my sisters study hard and work hard in school inspires me to want to achieve better academics.
Support
Lastly, I joined the Greek community because I wanted a supportive group of sisters. I wanted a group of girls that would support me in every decision I made–right or wrong. I wanted sisters that inspired me to be a better person. I wanted the sisterhood that I heard so many talk about. Alex Mantos, a member of the Greek community said, “I found a group of women who I could be my true self around. I made genuine connections with my sisters right away and I wouldn’t trade my membership for anything in the world!” I wanted acceptance, and I want girls to comfort me on my bad days and celebrate with me on my good ones. Megan Theesfeld, a sorority girl on campus said, “The girls I talked to during recruitment were some of the most genuine people I’d ever met. They had just met me, but already wanted me to feel at home.”
After joining Greek life, I got exactly what I was looking for. I get to participate in philanthropies, I’ve met countless people, my study habits have become better than ever and I have never felt so supported in my life. I’m so blessed to have so many sisters encouraging me and loving me. I’ve never been so happy and that’s a direct result of joining Greek life.