This week, we got in touch with the president of Waterloo’s local sorority Sigma Lambda Gamma. Keep on reading to learn more about what it’s like to be in a sorority as well as what Greek Life at Waterloo is all about!
Name: Lamisa Kabir
Year: 4B
Program: Economics, minoring in Management Studies
Can you tell us a little bit about SLG?
SLG is a women’s fraternity founded on March 30th, 2004 in our hometown, Waterloo. We welcome all self-identifying female students from either the University of Waterloo, Wilfred Laurier University or Conestoga College who embody our principles of Academics, Community Involvement, Diversity, Integrity and Social Interaction.
How long have you been a part of SLG?
4 years now.
Can you tell us a little bit about Greek Life at Waterloo?
The Greek Life in Waterloo is bigger than one might assume. We currently have three sororities and four fraternities on campus. Even though we have our own set of values, philanthropies, etc., that we treasure, we also share many of the same principles. Everyone in the Greek community is super friendly, and is constantly thriving to solidify the presence of Greek Life on campus. We are all one big family!
What first drew you to joining a sorority?
Honestly, I went into recruitment with a very skeptical mind. My conception of a sorority was flawed since it was a reflection of what was portrayed in popular media. I went to one of SLG’s recruitment event thinking if things go south, at least it’ll be a funny story to tell. As soon as I stepped into the room (I know this sounds dramatic), I really felt a breath of fresh air. Everyone was cordial and was genuinely interested in getting to know more about me. They were very laidback and I had some really great conversations. As I got to know the sisters more throughout recruitment and the pledging process, I wanted to surround myself with these incredible women I can learn so much from. And the rest is history.
Tell us a little about your role as president of SLG? Are there any challenges you’ve faced?
My main duty as president of SLG is to oversee all officer duties and to make sure everyone is abiding by the constitution. The good and bad thing about this role is that it’s open to interpretation and most problems or matters I deal with are very situational. This ties in with your second question, in the sense that, there is no preparing for it. You learn as you go. You also need to lead by example, create a welcoming environment and ensure that you build trust within the circle. Sisters should be comfortable talking about SLG and personal matters with you.
What’s the best part about being president?
It is genuinely a very rewarding position. Your organization is like your baby. If something good happens, you are extremely proud and happy. If something bad happens, you sense a feeling of melancholy. It really prepares you to be a team player and build leadership skills. I also sometimes feel like I will be a better mom in the future because of my experience, it’s weird right?
SLG is a local sorority, what’s the difference between local and international sororities?
The main difference is that local sororities only have one chapter and international sororities usually have multiple chapters in different universities in different states. For example, we only have one chapter because we are based in Waterloo. There are a few other differences in requirements, how things are run, dues, etc.
Some similarities include the types of social, philanthropy and sisterhood events we hold.
What is your favourite part about being a sister? Any memories you’d like to share?
My family doesn’t live in Canada anymore. I only get to see them twice every year. My favorite part about being a sister is that I have a home away from home: a support system and people I can count on.
There are so many memories. It’ll take a decade. I’ll share my most recent favorite. A bunch of my sisters decided to throw me a huge surprise party for my 23rd birthday. I had sisters attend from out of town. There were sisters who attended despite it being midterm season. It really made me feel like people genuinely care about me. I cried. Multiple times. Did I mention the theme was La La Land?
Has being a part of a sorority changed your university experience?
100 percent. My life would’ve been so different if I wasn’t part of SLG. I initiated in Fall 2013 and have been active every term since (8 terms)! I’ve had an incredible university experience and SLG has been the cherry on the top.
Do you have a little? What has that mentorship meant to you and what is it like?
I have two. I love them. I have a younger sister (biological) who I’m super close to but I don’t get to see as much anymore. Having a little was basically like having another younger sister, except I got two ;) Honestly mentoring my littles helped me better myself too. I had to be a role model and lead by example and that let me be an enhanced version of myself. Every time I see them achieve great things, I feel like a proud mama.
A lot of people are nervous about recruitment! Can you tell us what it is like and do you have any advice?
It’s basically like being in a room with very nice and genuine women and it’s extremely difficult for you to feel uncomfortable. Think about it, out of the 20 people in the room, what are the odds you won’t get along with any? It’s nothing like what is portrayed in popular media. You’ll honestly be surprised.
Best advice: Be your weird self. You’ll find your people.
How would someone get involved with a Greek organization?
You can find information on Greek Council’s page, at Vendor’s Alley and during Club’s Day. Each organization also has their own individual websites and social media handles. If you see someone on campus wearing Greek letters, don’t hesitate to ask them about Greek Life and their experience.
Recruitment is generally carried out within the first three weeks of classes in Fall and Winter. Some organizations also recruit in the Spring.
What quote do you live by?
“Make a life, not a living.”
Sigma Lambda Gamma’s website: http://www.sigma-lambda-gamma.com/
UW Greek Council: http://www.uwgreekcouncil.com/index.html
UW Greek Council FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/uwgreekcouncil/