Your college years are some of the best years of your life, but what happens after you graduate and enter into the "real world?" Being in a sorority can prepare you for a lot of the problems that you might encounter as an adult in the workplace. As they always say, "Greek life is more than just four years. It's for a lifetime."
1. You don't have to be friends with everyone.
The number one thing that I have learned by being in a sorority is that there are many types of people in the world, but you don't have to like them all. Everyone can't be your best friend. Not everyone will be your favorite person, but you still have to learn to play nice with others. Fake it until you make it.
2. You are able to fake confidence like a champ.
Small talk is key--especially during recruitment and other similar events. Mixers anyone? Being in a sorority teaches you to project yourself, even when you don't feel your most confident. This, in turn, actually gives you confidence instead of being shy and timid in a large crowd.
3. Time management is everything.
Being in a sorority is a 24/7 commitment to an extracurricular activity. It hits you pretty hard during pledging that if you don't learn how to go to class, get to work on time, finish all your homework and make it to the weekly meeting (in addition to whatever else you have going on that week), you're screwed. Learning how to manage your time is KEY if you want to survive.
4. Appearance isn't everything, but it sure is a lot.
Contrary to popular belief, not every sorority girl is Elle Woods and is subsequently dressed to the nines every day. I like my T-shirts just as much as the next girl. Being in a sorority teaches you how to dress appropriate (and classy) for things such as job interviews and how not to wear jeans with holes in them when you're meeting someone important. All of the rules on what you can and can't wear actually help!
5. You learn when to talk (and when not to).
Here's the best piece of advice you will ever receive: watch what you say at all times because you never know who's listening (or watching!) In a big group, sometimes it's easier to sit back and listen rather than be the center of attention. A lot can be learned from keeping your mouth shut and listening to other people's opinions and thoughts.
6. Community service (aka Philanthropy events) can be fun.
Each sorority has a nationally affiliated philanthropy (or five if you're a Sigma Kappa!) Most likely, you weren't too involved with community service unless you were forced to while in high school. Philanthropy events can be some of the most fun events you will attend. Chasing boys around campus trying to steal their hats for Derby Days is definitely one of my favorite events.
7. You are always capable of more than you think.
Think about it: you're going through college with a commitment to an organization that requires so much of you mentally. You're required to maintain a certain GPA and act a certain way and you're doing it all. You can balance work and play all while being there for your sisters. Of course, you couldn't do it without them being there for you too, but isn't that why you joined in the first place? A sorority is a lifetime of sisterhood and memories, and it's defnot just a four-year thing.
