With recruitment coming up in a few short weeks, it's good to put a reminder out there that joining a sorority is so much more than the typical stereotypical judgments that are made.

"You pay for your friends."

"All sorority girls do is party."

"They are all spoiled and materialistic."

With hundreds of new girls debating whether the sorority life is right for them, I thought it would be good to share some clarity with the world.

1. You are not paying for your friends.

The most classic stereotype of a sorority is that you are paying for your friends. In no way do you need to join a sorority to make friends. But no matter what size school you go to, having a bond with a smaller group of people is so helpful. Sororities make the transition to the big college life feel more like home, with girls to go to for anything, anytime, a home away from home.

2. Sorority dues want to help you, not hurt you.

A place to live (that is generally cheaper and nicer than the dorms), meals, social functions, a place to study, endless opportunities, and the best memories of your college career. That is what it comes down to when looking at the financial aspect of joining a sorority. Of course, the formals, date parties, and sisterhood events are not necessary to some people. But who doesn't want to get dressed up and make the best memories of your life with friends?

3. Joining a sorority helps with your academics.

Many people say they don't have the time for a sorority due to their academics, but what a lot of people don't know is that joining a sorority does nothing but support you through your school work. From study files (old notes, quizzes, power points from girls who have previously taken classes), to sisters who offer help to keep you on the right track, joining a sorority has actually improved my GPA dramatically. Not to mention scholarships are offered through sororities as well.

4. There are many opportunities that come from joining a sorority. No, partying is not what I am referring to.

It is almost impossible to sit back and become a wallflower when in a sorority. You are always encouraged and motivated to apply for a leadership position, get more involved with the community, or even to act more on your philanthropy. All these things are great accomplishments that not only shape you as a person, but also help when it comes to resume builders for your future.

5. Through joining a sorority, you will impact others.

We are not girls who only care about ourselves. Each sorority has a different cause they are involved with and help raise money for. Being involved in philanthropic activities makes such a bigger impact than most people think. Through my sorority, Pi Beta Phi, we have helped donate more than two million brand new books to children from low-income families across the United States and Canada. Being a part of something bigger in this world is such a rewarding feeling.

So if I can tell you some things about joining a sorority, it is that one, it has truly impacted my four years at college in the best way possible. And two, if I paid for my friends, I sure as hell didn't pay enough.