My heart has always been one of service. I was extremely active with my church’s high school program before college. I first started attending as many retreats as I could, and before I knew it, I attended two mission trips and facilitated over 10 retreats for students younger than me. I never passed up an opportunity to help others. When I graduated high school and the program that opened my heart of service, I wasn’t sure what I was going to do.
I attended a community college for the first two years of college, and the social opportunities were limited due to the spaced out satellite campuses. When I transferred to Kennesaw State University, a whole new world opened up to me. There were hundreds of clubs, different on-campus events and a community called “Greek Life.” I wasn’t sure if I wanted to be in a sorority because of the (untrue) stereotypes that were pounded into my head since I first saw "Sydney White." Nonetheless, I went to the Greek Block Party, unsure of what to expect. I met hundreds of incredibly sweet women who proudly wore their letters and were committed to being excellent leaders and women on campus. However, I couldn’t afford Formal Recruitment and I wasn't sure if I would find the right sorority for me.
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I then heard about the lesser-known sorority on campus, Omega Phi Alpha, a National Service Sorority. Committed to promoting friendship, leadership and service with the permanent project being mental health, I immediately felt a connection to them. Because they weren’t Panhellenic, rush was completely separate from Formal Recruitment and therefore free. I went to rush, received a bid and haven’t looked back since.
Though a lot of people don't believe Omega Phi Alpha is a "real" sorority, we are. While Omega Phi Alpha might not be Panhellenic, we still share similar customs:
1. Rush
Rush was so much fun!
2. Bid Day
"On Bid Day, we wear pink."
3. Big and Little
#bestdayever
4. Initiation
So happy to finally become a part of this amazing family.
5. Friendship
Spring Formal 2015 at Auburn University.
6. Leadership
Relay for Life at Kennesaw State University.
Omega Phi Alpha raised the most money out of any sorority and fraternity on campus, and had the most attendance at the end of the night despite the freezing temperatures.
7. Service
Light the Night 2014 walk in Downtown Atlanta.
Helping out with yard work at a local school.
Some good ol' puppy love.
I never thought I would find myself in a sorority. I believed the portrayals of sororities were right and they didn't do anything to help the community. But I was wrong. Through my sorority, I have been able to have a positive impact on my community and make a difference in the world we live in. On top of that, I have amazing sisters who would do anything for me. Without a doubt, Omega Phi Alpha has become my home, and I am so blessed to be a part of it.
