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I've had AOII initiation scribbled in my planner for the last two months. I didn't really know what it meant to be initiated, but I was excited nonetheless. Baited by my insatiable curiosity and against my better instincts, I Google searched "sorority initiation." What came up was a whole bunch of horror stories that I knew didn't slightly resemble anything my sorority sisters would put me through, but it did get me thinking. What does being initiated into a sorority really mean? I had heard rumors and tid bits ranging from bizarre to the expected about initiation rituals from my friends already initiated into their respective sororities. Each sorority does initiation differently, but many have their members wear all white to symbolize innocence, takes place in a church or chapel, and of course divulge secret information only shared by the members of the organization. The pledge educators of my sorority had done their best to educate my pledge class on what was expected of us on the fateful day, but still much was left unknown. What was with all the secrecy? Could the horror stories I read have a glimpse of truth? Thanks again to Google, I found the definition of initiation. "Initiation is a rite of passage ceremony marking entrance or acceptance into a group or society. In an extended sense, it can also signify a transformation in which the initiate is 'reborn' into a new role." This sounded more like the type of thing my sisters had prepared for me and my pledge class, but it wasn't until I was dressed in white, standing next to my sisters, and finally initiated that I truly understood. Initiation isn't a final test to prove your worthiness, it's a celebration of the friendships you have found and will hold onto for a lifetime. Additionally by completing our "pledge period" and partaking in the initiation ceremony, my pledge class and I were 'reborn into a new role.' We are no longer the affectionately titled "baby pandas," but full-fledged AOIIs. The exciting and busy time of being spoiled and explained to are coming to an end; and although I'm going to miss the serenades, regular presents, and preferential treatment I have to admit I'm really excited. Sorority life finally feels like "real life." I can proudly wear my letters and know every girl I see wearing them has gone through the same ritual I have, and there is something really comforting about that. Mariah is a freshman studying marketing and writing rhetoric. You may contact her at mariah.kline@gmail.com.
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