When I came to college in the fall of 2013, I knew a total of one person: my best friend.

Despite knowing practically no one, I couldn’t have been more excited to move to the college town I now call home and join a sorority.

Three years later, as I watch all the bright eyed and bushy tailed women on campus figure out which sorority they belong to, I can’t help but reminisce on my own journey to becoming a sorority woman. Going through recruitment and joining Alpha Delta Pi was truly a life changing experience, and if I could do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a single thing. Here are a few of the many reasons I am proud to call myself a sister of Alpha Delta Pi.

1. The women are genuine.

There’s nothing I love more than someone who I can sit and talk with for hours on end without feeling bored or awkward, and Alpha Delta Pi is filled with authentic, heart-felt women just like that. I can be my true self around them without being afraid that they’ll judge me and I know that no matter what, they’re going to love me through it all.

2. The women are loyal and trustworthy.

There has never been a time when I’ve questioned the loyalty of one of my sisters, and it’s comforting knowing I’ll never have to. I can come to them with a secret of mine or tell them personal things without ever having to worry about someone else finding out and when they tell me something I can trust that it’s the truth. They are fierce friends and I know they have my back at all times.

3. The women are encouraging.

Whether I’m getting ready for an event, studying for a big exam or applying for a job there’s always sisters in my corner cheering me on. When I fail at something, they’re there to lift me up and help me get better for the next time. When I do well, they’re there to celebrate and share in my excitement. They inspire me to be the very best I can be everyday.

4. The women are compassionate.

From the moment I met them, I have felt nothing but love and true friendship from these women. They are caring and selfless, and in this cruel world it’s reassuring that there are still people who are willing to lend a helping hand to whoever needs it and give back to causes that are close to their hearts.

5. The women are humble.

Humility is a rare quality not many people possess, but I’ve been blessed to be a part of the most humble group of women I’ve ever met. They are confident, intelligent and honest without ever being arrogant, boastful or rude. Win or lose, they do so with grace and dignity.

I joined this sorority in search of friendship but I never knew how much more I would find. My sisters have shown me what it means to be a part of something that is bigger than myself and it helped shape me into the woman I am today. Through Alpha Delta Pi I have found my best friends, my bridesmaids and a place I will forever call home. My wish for you is that you will find something that brings you the joy and friendship I have found in Alpha Delta Pi.