In small southern towns like mine, one of the biggest question recent high school graduates get is "are you going to rush?" After I graduated, almost every one I knew wanted to rush and tried to talk me into joining them. Most people say yes and start discussing different chapters, recommendation letters and what to expect during rush week. However, this article isn't for those people.
Let me stop for a second to say I have nothing against Greek life or its members. I think Greek life is great for some people, in fact, my boyfriend is fraternity member. I love his fraternity, all of the members and all of their girlfriends who are in sororities. Greek life is a great way to make friends and connections in college, but I don't believe Greek life is right for everyone.
My freshman year, I was on the fence about going through sorority recruitment. I was still hesitant in the fall, so I waited until spring when my roommate convinced me to go to the interest meeting. After going to the meeting and a few events, I knew sororities weren't for me. All of the girls seemed very sweet and amazing but something just didn't feel right.
That whole semester I questioned myself on if I had made the right decision. At the time, I barely had any friends on campus other than my boyfriend and my roommate. Shortly after, my roommate and I had a falling out and I felt more alone than ever. I thought I should've joined a sorority just to ensure I had friends.
I've learned now that wanting to join Greek life just to make sure you have friends is not enough. Sororities and fraternities are huge commitments physically, mentally and financially. Physically, I was working two jobs and taking 18 hours of classes. Mentally, I was already stressed about the transition from high school to college. Financially, I could barely afford to buy groceries. For me, the cons outweighed the pros.
Instead of rushing, I decided to find other ways to make friends. I joined three organizations, started talking to people in my classes and opened my mind to new, unlikely friendships. I met my best friend, who is now my roommate, and got more involved on campus than ever.
If you're unsure about Greek life, go to an interest meeting or attend an event. Then, take a step back and ask yourself "What are the pros? What are the cons? Do I feel like I fit in here?" If Greek life isn't for you, find other ways to get involved on campus through clubs and organizations. Talk to people in your classes, especially those with the same major as you.
If you decide to get involved with Greek life, challenge yourself to make friends outside of your sorority or fraternity. Look for new ways to get involved on campus. Try out a new organization or make plans with people in other chapters or not in Greek life at all.
