Oh Rush Week. It's almost upon us.
In one month, hundreds of hopeful girls will gather in the hopes of being a member of {fill in the blank} sorority. I fortunately am a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, Gamma Zeta Chapter and I can't imagine my university experience without them. In about five weeks, there will be a a brand new pledge class getting ready to embark on the journey that is Greek Life.
But unfortunately, every girl doesn't get to "run home" on bid day and in order to get to bid day, one must get through rush week. So here are some tips on how to get through rush week and be at peace by the end of it.
1. Don't wear the tallest pair of high heels you own. Not only does it kill your feet by the end of the day, but it's not near as impressive as you think. By the end of the day, your feet will be dying and I promise, we can tell.
2. Keep your purse stocked with only the essentials. This includes: bringing oil-blotting sheets, a mirror and extra makeup (powder and lipstick), mints (not gum), deodorant/perfume, and Germ-X. You don't need a giant purse to carry these in. A sling bag works just fine. Summer is hot: be prepared.
3. Speak up. Seriously, ask questions. Ask about each sorority's strengths and weaknesses. Ask about the time commitment it requires, the academic requirements, their philanthropy, their fees/dues and what their involvement is on campus. Know what you're getting yourself into.
4. Do get plenty of sleep, eat healthy meals and drink a lot of water. Rush week is long, but the days are longer. Not only are these good options for your body and mind everyday of the year, but especially during rush week. Remember that you'll be coming in contact with tons of girls a day, so washing your hands and using your Germ-X is a good idea. I also take a Zyrtex every night and drink a good tea in the morning.
5. With that being said, don't be afraid to eat or drink anything you're offered at each house. It's not rude to take and it's not rude to say no thank you. You're going to be doing a lot of talking. It's okay to need some water. Heck, it's okay to just want to eat the cookie. Be happy.
6. Be honest with yourself and don't follow your friends. You are making a decision for yourself and yourself alone. Sure, it's great to have your friends beside you but the entire point of rushing is to make new ones. As you walk through each house, honestly asses them and mentally eliminate throughout the week and pledge according to what you want in your heart. Don't let anyone pressure you into pledging any particular house; not your mama, your siblings, or your best friend. Keep an open mind throughout the week, and trust your gut. You know you like no one else does.
7. Meet everyone you can! Strike up conversations with anyone and everyone that stands in front of you. You never know who will end up living in your dorm hallway, sitting nearby in your biology lab, or may actually be in your pledge class!
8. Step outside of your comfort zone. My mama always taught me that I am the company I keep. College is about growth, and there's no better way to grow than by surrounding yourself with girls that make you want to be a better person. Think of the woman you want to be in the next four years and choose a house according to that vision. You'll be living with these girls, so its important that the house you're picking is filled with good influences and good character.
9. Don't believe all the hear/say about Greek life.I don't care what you've seen on TV or heard in a song, MY greek experience is nothing like those. Now of course, there are always a few houses here or a few girls there, but the ultimate goal of greek life is spreading good and creating sisterhood. This isn't "Legally Blonde," "House Bunny," or "Greek." This is real life and I promise, it's better.
10. Apart from that, don't dismiss a house based on what you've heard from other people. The opinions you're receiving about a sorority's reputation may be biased or outdated. Have your own mind and form your own opinions.
11. Don't hold grudges or blame anyone if you get cut from a house. This is tricky. I understand this is where a lot of hurt feelings come into play and a lot of tears flow. But the way a sorority can bid on a girl differs for each Panhellenic administration, college, and chapter. Have an open mind about where you end up, and remember that you're there because everyone in that house wanted you to be their sister! And if it isn't where you originally wanted to be, ask yourself if you honestly wanted to be somewhere you weren't wanted or ask yourself if God put you were you needed to be.
12. Be yourself. The best sororities are the most diverse ones. Don't try to be anyone but yourself while you make your rounds at the parties. You want to end up in a sorority that likes you with or without makeup, regardless of the price tag on your clothes, whether you party or not, and despite your quirky sense of humor. When my sorority sister's high-fived me on my third s'more, I knew it was real.
I hope your week is everything you hopped it would be and that you meet some of the most wonderful people. ZLAM!
