When I walked onto my university campus for the first time, I had no idea what I was doing. I didn't know where my classes were, even after the extensive orientation I went through and checking out my buildings before classes started. I drew a blank because I was afraid. I was in a city I didn't know, without any of my closest friends, and three roommates that I barely knew. I didn't think I would ever fit in anywhere, I didn't know what organizations to commit to, and I didn't think I could get through the first week, let alone four years.
And then I went Greek.
I could sit here and tell you how much Greek life changed my life (because it did), but I am going to do something even better. I am going to tell you how my sorority built me.
Flashback to freshman year. I went Greek my very first semester. This is where it all began. Going Greek was not something I had intended to do. However, I stepped out of my comfort zone and fell in love with Greek Life. I have always been an outgoing, bubbly, and fun girl, but have always feared stepping out of my comfort zone. All it took was one person to change my entire outlook on Greek life.
In the two years that I have been Greek, I have excelled on so many levels. My sisters have inspired me to put myself out there and take advantage of every opportunity. It's because of them that I can stay humble when I am on top of the world and be optimistic when things aren't going my way.
I have excelled academically.
The thought that Greek women aren't intelligent is probably one of the biggest misconceptions about Greek life. My sisters praise me when I succeed and offer their help, support and assistance when I am struggling. They are some of the most intelligent women that I know. My sorority believes in the importance of scholarship.
I have excelled socially.
Now, I don't mean that I spend my weekends on Fraternity Row or at the local bars. Because of my sorority, I have learned how to be a sociable person. I have learned to branch out, make connections with others, and be involved in other organizations. I have learned how to be appropriate and professional at all times and remember that I am always wearing my letters. My sorority believes in the importance of remembering who you are and who you represent.
I have excelled in compassion.
Since becoming Greek, my compassion for others has increased immensely. I have fallen in love with life and with all of its opportunities. I have grown to show more compassion for others who are in situations worse than mine. I love community involvement and community service and have learned the importance of staying humble. My sorority believes in characteristics such as loyalty, humility, courage, compassion and kindness.
My sorority has built me and shaped me into the woman that I am today. I don't know what kind of a person or student I would be if I didn't have my sisters to guide me, inspire me, support me and love me.
