1. Disregard the stereotypes
It’s easy to go into recruitment thinking that you know which sorority you’ll like most. Maybe you’ve heard of stereotypes from friends or friends of friends, but most of this will fail to be true. Make sure to base your judgments on the actual conversations you have with sorority sisters.
2. Dress the part
We all know how important first impressions are in life. When in doubt, dress up rather than down during recruitment. Don’t be afraid to show off your personal style, while remaining in your comfort zone.
3. Learn how to market yourself
You have chosen to go through recruitment because you want to get involved in the Greek community. Sororities are looking for women who will represent them well on campus and later when they become alumni.
4. Make your own decisions
Don’t choose a sorority just because your best friend is choosing them. A sorority is a lifelong commitment and you should go where you feel most comfortable.
5. Be appropriate
Don’t talk about anything you wouldn’t talk to your boss about. Panhellenic women want to get to know the real you, not the illicit things you and your best friends did last weekend.
6. Treat it like an interview
The rush process is like a two-way interview. You are looking to make an impression and receive a bid, but they want to impress you and have you accept their bid as well.
7. Ask questions
Each sorority is based on different values, supports different philanthropies and offers unique opportunities. Ask questions about these pillars to understand where you will fit best.
8. Get plenty of sleep
Recruitment days are long and require a lot of energy. You’ll be spending a couple of hours each night, on your feet, having conversations with multiple girls at a time and you’ll want to be as alert and engaged as possible.
9. Don’t reach out to members of sororities during recruitment week
Panhellenic women are not allowed to call, text or Facebook a PNM (potential new member) outside of recruitment days. Contacting them will put them in an awkward position and is considered a serious rush violation.
10. Enjoy yourself!
You’re going through recruitment to find friends that will eventually become your sisters. Remember, the best conversations are those that feel natural rather than forced!
Recruitment Lingo
Panhellenic: The governing body for all sororities
PNM: A potential new member
Rho Gamma: A sorority woman who has disaffiliated from her sorority in order to help provide impartial advice to PNMs throughout recruitment
All eligible Northeastern Students can sign up here: