Passion. Sisterhood. Charity.

I thought I knew what these words meant, but now I understand. I’m not one for hyperbole, but becoming a part of Delta Nu Zeta was one of the best things I’ve done here at UF. I’ve joined a group of two hundred girls who care about giving back to the community, care about their future and care about each other. It’s only been two months since I rushed DNZ, but the friends and memories I’ve made are ones I’ll remember for a lifetime.

Delta Nu Zeta is a service sorority at UF. This means we are not affiliated with Panhellenic or Multicultural councils—we do not have a house, we do not haze and we do not require a certain image to be upheld. We are a group of girls united by our desire to make a difference. Every girl I’ve met has a passion so immense they dedicate their time to making their goals a reality. Whether it be a Telecom Productions major tediously editing to get the perfect video, an International Relations major actively encouraging our governments to do better or a Pre-Veterinarian major sacrificing weekends downtown in hopes of earning the title “Doctor,” I’ve seen each girl in this organization apply themselves to their unique career path, and I have no doubt they will be successful. It’s an amazing feeling to be surrounded by like-minded, hardworking individuals.

However, these girls are so much more than their majors or their long hours in the library. They’re all unique and incredible in their own ways. They all have their own paths, and they respect that I am on mine too. Despite our differences, DNZ unites all of us in a sisterly manner. I’ve found a group of girls that have happily welcomed me with open arms, whether it be into their study rooms or their closets. The particular group of girls I’ve become well acquainted with are quite spunky, humorous, and love to have a good time—just like me. We clicked from the start and it’s been great memories ever since.

Delta Nu Zeta isn’t just about having a blast with your sisters, even thought it sure feels like it. At the end of the day, it really is about giving back our time to those who need it. DNZ reaches out to so many organizations in the Gainesville community, including the Boys & Girls Club, Alachua County Humane Society, Adopt a Street and my personal favorite—the Ronald McDonald house. Every Monday, we gather girls and cook dinner for the families staying there while their children are across the street receiving treatment at Shands Hospital. It feels incredible to know that a few hours from my day can make a difference in someone else’s life.

I feel it’s worth noting that this isn’t a recruitment tactic, or a fake article I wrote to convince my dad that I’m doing things in college besides tailgating. This is my honest perspective—I love my sorority. Delta Nu Zeta is more than Comfort Colors T-Shirts and Formals. It is a group of girls united by their desire to help others, support each other, and make a difference. In two weeks, I will be initiated, and I will officially be a sister. I will wear our letters with pride, because I am so honored to be a part of this group of girls. Delta Nu Zeta has shown me the true importance of passion, sisterhood and charity, and I will hold steadfast these ideals forever.