When I was searching for colleges, Greek life was not a deciding factor. In fact, I avoided sororities like the plague. I thought sorority girls were catty girls who partied every night. When I started attending college, I was surprised by the Greek life I saw. Sorority girls at my school were friendly, studious, and humble. The local Greek system at my school made Greek life less intimidating. Feeling optimistic, I decided to rush. I ended up pledging Sigma Kappa Tau, the smallest sorority on my campus. We’ve been labeled as bottom tier, even by some of our own members. Still, I love my sorority. Here are just a few reasons I love my small sorority:

1. I didn't have to change to fit in.

Pledging a “bottom tier” sorority made me feel less obligated to change my personality to fit in. In high school, I was introverted, bookish, and often out of the loop with pop culture. I didn’t try to dress fashionably, I hardly ever dated anyone, and I was just plain awkward. I still am. Luckily, I was able to find a group that I fit in with well. We’re all clumsy, we’re not necessarily “popular”, we’re all socially awkward to some extent, and that’s okay. While I felt like an outsider in high school, I fit right in with my sorority.

2. There are more leadership opportunities.

Since we’re such a small group, everyone is able to contribute. In fact, everyone needs to contribute in order for our small group to function. Everyone has their own specific role in the group. Some of our members even hold more than one position. Being in a small sorority keeps me busy.

3. I’m close with all my sisters.

Since there are less people in the group, I’m able to know each one of my sisters individually. I can say with confidence that I have a close, personal relationship with each member of my sorority. I have everyone’s phone number and I text them. I have inside jokes with everyone. I don’t feel as if I’m faking a relationship with any of my sisters.

4. We’re still diverse among ourselves.

We have some similarities among members, but we’re still individuals. I would never describe my sisters as “clones” of each other. Some of my sisters like reading manga, some would rather be texting boys, and some do both! Since we’re a smaller group, the differences between individuals are more apparent. We're more aware of our own diversity.

5. I’m really proud of my letters.

There are very few people on campus who wear Sigma Kappa Tau letters. Wearing my letters makes me feel like I’m part of an exclusive club. My letters make me stand out among my peers. When I wear my letters, people take notice.

Truth be told, I never expected that I’d be in a sorority. I took a risk by rushing, and now I can’t imagine my life without my sisters. Close friendships and a sense of belonging aren’t traits exclusive to my sorority. However, I think being in a smaller group makes it easier to form these bonds. I believe that being in a much smaller group makes my experience different than the typical sorority experience (which I never wanted to begin with). My sorority is my cohesive friend group-my squad-so I’m not ashamed to be in a sorority with only fifteen members. As with any group, it’s the quality, not quantity, that matters.