As an active member in Greek life, I’ve encountered many stereotypes about sorority girls and sororities as a whole. Since sorority recruitment had just occurred and had recently come to an end, I thought I might clear the air regarding the top five sorority stereotypes.

1. The girls are air heads.

Believe it or not, many of the girls who are active members in a sorority are not “dumb blondes.” In fact, they are some of the smartest and most involved girls on campus as they work hard to maintain their excellent grades and high GPAs. As for many, scholarship is their highest aim. Sorority girls have to make a certain GPA each quarter in order to participate in certain activities such as social events and formals and if the GPA isn’t acquired, there are consequences such as academic probation.

2. Sororities are full of rich, snobby girls.

Many women who are members of a sorority are normal, down to earth women who are also receiving some sort of scholarship or financial aid. Certain scholarships include academic scholarships, athletic scholarships and even Panhellenic scholarships. A specific sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta, has its own foundation, where scholarship money and grants are provided to it’s members in various chapters all across the nation!

3. All the girls do is party.

False. As sorority women, we’re constantly involved on Auburn's campus in events such as Dance Marathon, Best Buddies, The Big Event, Project Impact, Camp War Eagle and Student Recruiters just to name a few, as well as within the community. Each of our philanthropy events raise awareness and fundraise money for various causes and foundations. Of course we like to go out on the weekends and have a little fun, but who doesn’t?!

4. It's buying your friends.

This may be the most common stereotype made about sororities, and of course it comes from those who have never experienced Greek life first hand. Sorority dues are made to cover housing/chapter room expenses, chapter organizations, and events such as swaps, socials, formals and various sisterhood actives. All organizations have a fee of some sort and sorority dues never play a role in friendship.

5. The sisterhood isn't real.

If the bond I have with my sisters isn’t REAL then I don’t know what is. My sisters are my biggest support group, my motivation, my laughter, my tears… need I go on? My big is my best friend. Through my sorority I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime and relationships with women who impact one another for the better, daily. I’ve found thrill and adventure, as well as peace and sanity within my sisters which I thank God for everyday.