In my first few weeks at UCSB, the huge life transition to college left me floundering; I was confused as to what my next steps would be. All this uncertainty changed once I joined a sorority. I’d gotten involved with a few other clubs and organizations, but they didn’t impact my life quite like my sorority has. At the conclusion of my freshman year, I can genuinely say that being in a sorority has only positively impacted my life. Here are some of the main reasons why I’ve loved my experience, and why you should consider joining one, too!
Philanthropy
One of the main reasons I wanted to join a sorority was to contribute to philanthropy and feel like I was a part of something greater. My sorority supports the Alpha Phi Foundation, which directly supports women’s heart health, as well as the academic and personal pursuits of the young women in its community. I think it is so special that we have our own foundation that advances women’s lives through philanthropy. Having this connection to so many women joined together for a common goal helped me find a sense of purpose in college!
Sisterhood
My sorority has brought me some of my best friends, role models, and lifelong connections. Having these women in my life has provided me with not only a network of knowledgeable young women, but also a family I know I can always rely on. Whether I need academic help or a random recommendation, there is always a sister eager to help. Everyone is incredibly supportive of one another, and I’ve genuinely never experienced such a beautiful culture of sisterhood.
Community
Being in a sorority opens up so many opportunities to get involved within the community. There are plenty of chances to participate in your own sorority; there are leadership roles, as well as ways to get in touch with groups for the broader Greek Life community, such as Gauchos Go Green. Also, having friends in other sororities is one amazing result of being in a sorority that I did not realize would be so integral to the experience (shoutout @ucsbpanhellenic).
Joining my sorority obviously brought strong friendships within it, but one of my favorite outcomes of joining has been the incredible young women I’ve met outside of it. The Panhellenic community has allowed me to get to know some of my closest friends while also broadening my circles, overall strengthening my sense of home in Isla Vista. I know that everywhere I go, I have so many women who would look out for me — even if they aren’t in my own sorority! Having heard about how other campuses’ sororities have a competitive reputation, I was worried this would be an issue at UCSB. However, in my experience, I have only witnessed women lifting each other up instead of tearing each other down — except when we’re going head-to-head in our friendly competition philanthropy events, like Alpha Phi’s “Phi Ball” volleyball tournament, or Delta Gamma’s “AnchorSlam” basketball tournament!
A “Home” in Isla Vista
Having both a physical and emotional home in Isla Vista has made me even more comfortable in a place that was so new just months ago. Having a “home base” that I can always depend upon has truly put me at ease, made me more confident, and helped me fall even more in love with school here!
Each of these unique characteristics makes the Greek Life community, especially here at UCSB, so special! I am so excited for the next few years to grow as a member, and as a person, with my sisters by my side! If you’re considering joining Greek Life, or any other organization at school (like Her Campus), absolutely put yourself out there — it could be a life-changing decision that enriches not only your college experience, but also your life.