Like most people, I was introduced to stereotypes at a young age. Without even realizing it, I accepted these assumptions and even made some of my own. It's not that I was intentionally living life with a closed mind, I just chose to see the world through my own eyes. Sadly, one of the biggest stereotypes that exists is that of a sorority girl. However, when I walked into the world of singing, screaming, and refreshments that recruitment consisted of, I had no idea that I would be making one of the best decisions yet. Becoming part of a sisterhood has brought me the most genuine, loving people. I have become a better version of myself because of it. Never in my life have I experienced such love, acceptance, and encouragement in such a short amount of time as I did when I joined a sorority. Not only was genuine love and support shown within our circle of sisters, but it went far beyond, reaching those outside of the circle. When I'm older and in the later stages of life, I'll look back and try to think of what made me the person I am. I'll then realize that the day I became a sorority woman was the day that I started to realize who I wanted to be in life.

When I became a member of my sorority I was welcomed with intense amounts of love, excitement, and acceptance. Within the first couple of weeks, I created intimate and loving bonds with girls who were strangers just a few days ago. These girls have shown me loyalty, acceptance, leadership, and a love that is relentless. Not only have I been accepted and embraced for who I am, but I have been encouraged to become a better version of myself. Young girls are constantly put into situations and influenced by outside forces that create a strain on their self-confidence. By joining my sorority, I was immediately surrounded by other girls who encouraged me to be myself. Value was never placed on brands of clothing, hair, makeup, or reputation but instead on faith, heart, leadership, and love. Being supported and loved for exactly the person who they are is something that every girl needs.

Not only was I valued and loved for my heart, but I was also encouraged in my faith. I have found mentors within my sorority and girls who have constantly kept me encouraged and accountable. I have been able to be transparent and open about my journey with Christ. With the help of my sisters in Christ and through my sorority, I have grown so much in my faith and continue to have a growing desire to walk the path less traveled.

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Being involved in my sorority has also allowed me to put an emphasis on serving others. Through our philanthropy, I have had the opportunity to put my focus and energy on helping others and doing something bigger than myself. Not only does the sorority focus on helping, loving, and encouraging the girls within it, but it also focuses on spreading love and confidence to the people outside of the sisterhood.

If I had not joined my sorority I would have never experienced the level of genuine friendship that I see every single day through the girls in my sorority. Being called sisters isn't just a fun way to describe all being a part of an organization. We call each other sisters because no matter where life takes us or what it brings, the girls you share a sisterhood with will stand by your side through it all. They will wipe your tears and hold you up when you receive bad news. They'll remind you to read your Bible and depend on God before coming to them. They'll scream and celebrate with you over the smallest accomplishments and joys of life. They'll never fail to have your back, and if people attack you, the wrath of your sister will make them wish they hadn't. They'll laugh with you into the late hours of the night over things that only you think are funny. They'll make the simplest, unexciting, daily things a memorable adventure. They'll keep you encouraged when you feel like giving up and constantly remind you of your worth. They'll motivate you to become a better person while always accepting you for who you are "as is." Because of all these things and much more, my sisters have been the biggest blessings God has brought me. Being able to say that I'm a sorority woman is an honor and privilege that I will forever be proud of.