We have heard it all. From things like "sororities only care about partying," to "sororities make you pay for your friends." Somewhere along your journey through your college career as a woman involved in Greek life, these words have been said to you. I cannot explain the number of times I have had to defend myself and my organization at family reunions because my relatives have a twisted view on the Greek community. Why is there such a negative stigma with being in a sorority? Why can others not realize that a sorority is an organization that builds strong, beautiful women?

SEE ALSO: An Open Letter To The Ones Who Say I Pay For My Friends

Being a part of a sorority is nothing like you see on the movies or TV shows. It's nothing like "House Bunny." It's not drinking until you are blackout drunk every night of the week. It is not paying dues "just to have friends." Often in our society, only the scandals involving Greek life appear on headlines. Rarely do the philanthropy and fundraisers ever make it to the news. As a sorority woman, this hurts me.

Being in a sorority is about show the world what you are passionate about. It is about providing meals for children that go home hungry. It is about raising awareness for diseases. It is about raising money for incredible causes. It is about leaving a mark within the community to which you are placed.

SEE ALSO: 21 Things That Sorority Girls Actually Are

Being in a sorority is about learning from the girls around you and accepting self-growth. It is about maturing into the lady you wish to become. Greek life challenges you to accept responsibilities. These responsibilities within the chapter give you the opportunity to become a successful leader. USA Today reported in 2015 that 85% of Fortune 500 executives were part of Greek life. If that statistic doesn't blow your mind, then I don't know what would.

To be completely honest, I did not plan on joining a sorority during my college years, but it happened and I am forever grateful. I will continually use the leadership skills it gave me and try to make the world a better place one step at a time.