Congratulations on becoming a new member of Greek life! The sorority world can be extremely fun, but believe me, it is a lot of work too and can definitely be overwhelming. My first few weeks as a pledge were overwhelming, and honestly, there were several points when I considered dropping my sorority before initiating as a collegiate member. But as the time passed, I learned that almost, if not all, the other new members of my bid class were having the same doubts I was having. As recruitment weekend is rapidly approaching at my school, and I am reflecting on what my life was like as a new member, I realize that there are a lot of things I wish I had known when I initially joined Greek life that would have made my life and transition into sorority world a lot easier. So here are some things I learned about what life is like as a Greek that I would like to share with all new sorority members.
1. Greek life is a time commitment.
Like any other organization, club, etc. you join, Greek life will be a time commitment. However, you can determine how much of a time commitment it is, based off of how involved you want to be in the chapter. However, there will be weekly meetings at a minimum, and when special events are going on like recruitment you will have a lot more events you need to attend. The time commitment is manageable for sure, but it's still something to keep in mind. I highly recommend going to as many meetings, events, etc. that you can as a pledge, that way you get a good idea of what the time commitment will be like when you initiate and things are mandatory.
2. You get what you put in.
Just like most other things in life, you get what you put into Greek life. The more time you spend with your sisters, the closer you will be to them and the more memories you will create. Your chapter will never feel like your home if you don't put in the effort to make it your home. You won't have fun if you don't try to make friends and have fun. If you are feeling like an outsider or starting to doubt your chapter, force yourself to spend more time with the chapter and make some new friends. It can be rough, but sometimes we all need that little kick to remind us of why we love our sisters.
3. Have a life outside of Greek life.
Greek life can be overwhelming, everyone can agree to that. That's why it is important to have friends and do activities outside of Greek life that you can go to when you need a break. There will be times when your sisters drive you absolutely batty, and that's normal. That's how being human works. Make sure that you have an "escape" from the craziness of Greek life to keep you sane, and also the time away from your sisters will probably make you miss them.
4. You have to love everyone, but you do not have to like them all.
In any group of people, there will be some that you like and dislike more than others. Again, that is just part of human nature. It is perfectly fine to be best friends with Sister Sally, but not as close with Sister Sue. Avoid becoming too cliquey, be kind and support all of your sisters, and try your hardest to love them all. You can love your sisters because they are part of your chapter, but you certainly do not have to be best friends with them all (just try and get along!).
5. There will be drama.
In any large group of people, there will be some sorts of drama, as much as we all want to avoid it. That is okay. Try and be as mature as possible, and be kind. These two things will really go a long way in trying to avoid unnecessary drama between sisters.
6. Greek life will force you to be responsible.
Having to pay for dues, time commitments, leadership positions, obligations, etc. there are a lot of responsibilites you'll have to meet in order to remain in good standing to be in your chapter. It can be difficult, but it will really help you grow up. College is a time where we are learning how to be responsible adults, and Greek life will hold you accountable for things such as grades, making smart decisions and good choices, time management, etc. Is it a pain? At times it absolutely can be. Will it help you out in your future? Definitely.
7. Not everyone is a fan of Greeks.
There are lots of negative and untrue stereotypes about Greek life going around in our society. Because of this, not everyone approves of Greek life. It is your, and every other member of the Greek community's, job to prove this wrong. Wear your letters with pride. Do things that will positively reflect back on your chapter. The more Greeks who show the world how great Greek life is, and how there is so much more of it than parties, the better. You may have to stand up to people who question your decision to join Greek life, and that is fine. Prove them wrong by showing them how beneficial Greek life is to your college experience and your future life. You wanted to join Greek life for a reason, now show that to the world.
8. Do not tolerate hazing.
One of the untrue stereotypes about Greek life is that there will be hazing. This is absolutely not true. Your sisters are here to tear you up, not drag you down. Do not let them bully you. Talk to your president, new membership director, risk management, etc. if you feel like you are being hazed by another member, because it is not tolerable.
9. Your sisters will become your family.
You will see your sisters at their best and worst, and vice versa. You guys will go to each other when you need a shoulder to cry on, someone to go to Taco Bell with, a study buddy, your future bridesmaids, etc. Leaving your sisters for breaks will be difficult, as your chapter truly becomes your home away from home. You will find someone, if not many people, in the chapter who will become more than a member of Greek life with you, they truly will be like a sibling. Maybe it's your big, maybe not. Maybe it's a girl in you bid class, a roommate, your future little, who knows. You'll bicker, you'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll be driven insane... but all in the good ways like a real family.
Greek life is truly like nothing else you will ever experience. It is absolutely crazy, but it is a blast. There will be high moments, there will be low moments, and you will have sisters to support you the entire time. You will have doubts about Greek life (maybe even after reading this article), and that is okay! By doubting it, that means you are seriously considering the big decisions about initiating that you will be facing for the next few months. And in my opinion? Initiate. Go Greek. It can be a challenge at times, but it is definitely worth it.
