As I have mentioned before in a of couple articles (here and here) I chose to go through Formal Recruitment and join a sorority during my first semester of college. I made the choice to join this group of women who had some of the same values as me and who knew what it meant to have someone support you in what you do. I joined something wonderful.
As I have also mentioned in one of those two articles (I cannot remember which one, or if I mentioned it in both of them) I decided to apply for a council position. I filled out my application, sent it in, and hoped for the best. Now, the chapter I am in is quite small with only about 40 of us right now (during recruitment our numbers will go up, we all have our hopes as to by how much), but I was still a little worried. I was just a new member at the time. I was still in my first weeks of being in Kappa Delta and I was still a little uncomfortable around some of the girls. Regardless, I went for it. I wanted to have a leadership position in the sorority, and I knew I would not enjoy it as much if I did not.
When I submitted my application, I put down my top three positions. Nowhere on that list was VP-Finance. In fact, I did not want that position at all (apparently everyone else had that same thought, because no one applied for it). Despite the fact that I was not entirely keen on getting this position specifically, when I had my interview for a council position, I was asked by the sisters on council holding the interviews if I were willing to take a position I did not apply for. I was hesitant, asked them which one, and when they told me Finance I told them yes.
It was never my goal to become VP-Finance as a freshman journalism major. I wanted VP-Public Relations so I could get a feel for something I was actually interested in. Or I wanted Standards so I could help make sure everyone in the chapter was safe when we did things. However, I know that I am blessed for getting this position.
Before I got to college, I had no idea what making a budget even entailed. Okay, that is not completely true, but I had no idea how to begin making one. If I had not become VP-Finance I still would not know. Without being VP-Finance, I would not have to will that I have now to make sure I am holding people accountable. Although, let it be known that every time I have to get on someone for not paying on time I feel absolutely awful. Financial situations are different and they are difficult, it is hard to have this position when you know that personally.
Aside from all the things that come with the position specifically (thank you new money management skills!), I have also learned some things that come from just being on council. From being with a group of women for such a long period of time. I have learned that it is OK to ask for help. It is OK to pitch in during discussions, even if you know most of them are probably going to disagree with you. Being on council has given me a group of women who I know I can turn to when I am struggling. A president who cared about my position, and me, along with the rest of council. A VP-Public Relations who had brilliant ideas of how to support sisters all the time on social media. A Standards who cares about the sisters in the chapter and will make sure we are all doing what we are supposed to because that is what is going to keep us safe. I have been extremely lucky with the council I am on. We all care about each other, and we all want the best for our chapter.
Being on council, and specifically being VP-Finance, has given me opportunities that have made me stronger in where I stand. It has reminded me that I follow the rules I am given because it helps. Being VP-Finance has taught me all of this and being on council has taught me the added bonus of structure. You do not understand half the things that are put in place until you see why they are being put in place.
Even with the drama that happens (which would happen regardless), the late nights and the tears (and trust me, I have cried more than I care to admit due to frustration), I would not trade this experience with the women I have been a part of it with for anything. It breaks my heart that I may not be able to be on council again because of other things I would like to pursue.
When it comes time for council applications and appointed officer positions, take a chance on yourself and for your chapter and apply. You will not regret it.
