Going Greek can be daunting. There are so many rumors swirling around, suggesting that it's all a popularity contest, it's all about how pretty you are, etc., etc. But that's all they are--rumors. The truth of the matter is, there's a lot more that goes into a sorority deciding on future members than you may know. Here's what you should know before you dip your toes into Greek waters:
1. We're legitimately looking for a sister in you.
Not Lindsay-Lohan-Parent-Trap-Style, but when we call each other "sisters," that's not hyperbole. We're all in the same sorority because in each other we find someone to cry on, someone to pig out on pizza and garlic knots with us on a Friday night, someone to talk to on good days over coffee or on bad days over donuts, and someone to help us grow, as members of our college community and as people. Therefore, in conversations, we're looking for a genuine connection with you. We don't have to have everything in common, but as long as we can keep the conversation flowing and get along, we might be seeing that future sister status in you!
2. Don't give one-word answers.
Because we're trying to keep the conversation flowing, it's important that you hold up your end of the bargain. When we ask you a question, it's because we want to know you better, and a simple "yes" or "no" won't help us reach this goal. Come to recruitment with a mind full of what your interests, likes, and dislikes are, because that's what the majority of our questions will focus on. Bonus points if you're comfortable enough to show interest in what we're like and ask questions yourself too!
3. It's not about "pretty," it's about presentation.
A lot of girls make the mistake of thinking that sororities are always on the hunt for the prettiest members. That's not at all the case. However, how you present yourself matters because you'll soon be representing us as a sorority if you're selected as a member. This means that you should be well-kept, polite, and standing tall when you come through for recruitment nights. This does NOT mean that you have to be drop-dead-gorgeous or wearing the best brands to be selected.
4. We're anxious to meet you too.
You're looking for potential sisters, and so are we--both equally scary tasks. So when you're getting to know us and nervous to say the wrong thing, don't you worry, we're nervous too.
5. You're looking for a place you can call home.
While you go through recruitment, remember to be yourself. Ultimately, that's how you'll figure out where you belong. Because if you find the sorority that's right for you, it's going to feel right. It's going to feel comfortable. It's going to feel like home.