I never knew exactly what I was getting myself into the day I was extended a bid. I didn't know how much love and pride I would gain from three Greek letters. I never knew how much being a sorority woman would mean to me.

When I met my sisters during recruitment, I was absolutely blown away by three things: their diversity, their unity, and the love that bound them all together. After only one conversation with the women, I felt accepted for who I was, yet challenged to become so much better than I've ever been. Those ladies saw something in me that they connected with, and the day I was invited to join their sisterhood will be a day I never forget.

I am a sorority woman, and I defy the stereotypes.

I did not want to be a part of Greek life because I wanted prestige or privilege. I joined because I wanted to be a part of something that incredible, empowered women for over a hundred years have worked diligently to uphold. I wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself. I wanted to stand for something and to have someone stand for me. I am a sorority woman, and I have found where I belong.

I am a sorority woman, and my letters have taught me more than I could have ever imagined. I have learned so much about myself, and about who I am as an individual, all as a result of joining a sorority. The leadership positions, the events, the laughs, the inside jokes, the friendships, the sisterhood. Each of those factors come together to create a truly incredible experience.

It is a common misconception that being a sorority woman means that we are doing nothing but paying for our friends. That simply isn't true. My sisters are my sisters. We are all connected in a deep, beautiful way. They are not my sisters because I pay for them, just as I am not a sister to any of them because of their bank account. Each of us has something that makes the other a better person. We love, support, protect, and challenge each other in a way that only a true sister could.

Since accepting that invitation on bid day, I have known love, support, encouragement, and integrity like I never have before. Being a sorority woman has made all the difference in my life. Knowing that at any given moment I have sisters who are willing to stand up for me, who will come running no matter what time I call, who see the absolute best in me regardless of what I see in myself, which is something that I will always be thankful for.

I am a sorority woman, and I wear my letters with pride.