Every fall quarter, there are usually hundreds of girls nervously walking up and down Hilgard in their heels, hoping to get accepted into their dream sorority house. However, this year recruitment looked a bit different, as the only place the Potential New Members had to go was to their computer. Here are some pros and cons of being a sorority member during these odd times.
Being a part of a sorority usually involves going to lots of fun events like date parties and raids, getting to spend time at a sorority house with great meals, and participating in lots of philanthropy work with your fellow sisters. Unfortunately, now that Zoom has become the new normal for everyone, all the usual events and activities had to be canceled or moved virtually which has been challenging. It is not easy to come up with ways to keep everyone connected and involved when not everyone is in the same location. There are only some many times that you can play Skribbl.io or Among Us via Zoom. Since students are already on their computers for the majority of the day for class anyway, it is difficult to plan fun, non-mandatory virtual events that people will want to show up to. With fewer people showing up, it’s hard to keep in touch with all the women in your sorority and get the chance to meet all the new members.
Also, being a member of a sorority is pretty pricey. Many sororities have chosen to reduce their fees because no events are being held, but that unfortunately doesn’t mean that the amount being paid is that much less. Sororities still have to pay for their houses being maintained even if members are not living there. Since the pandemic, many student’s families suffered major financial blows. It is difficult to pay such a high price when the traditional sorority experience can’t be had.
However, in a pandemic or not, sororities are still a great way to meet great friends and be included in a supportive environment. It is difficult to meet people via Zoom, especially as a first-year. By joining a sorority, you immediately get to meet people in your pledge class, as well as older members. You can still get guidance on academics, club recommendations, and what being a college student is all about. For existing members, you still get to meet a bunch of new sisters and take them under your wing. Usually, sororities are a big time commitment, but there are not as many mandatory events now, which means less pressure and more time to focus on school, work, or any other responsibilities you have.
It is difficult to be a member of a sorority right now and keep everyone involved. However, it’s still nice to have a group of people that will always be there for you no matter what and push you to be your best self. Despite the virtual events and financial burden, I think being in a sorority is worth it in the long run, because you find friends for life that will be with you beyond the pandemic.