It's always encouraging to see different groups and organizations come together for a greater good. University of South Carolina sororities Chi Omega and Alpha Delta Pi are both comprised of young women with a passion for giving, for unity, and for one another.

This past week, the two sororities did something that is becoming more and more praised and accepted among Greek life. Chi O and ADPi joined together for a night of relaxation and Panhellenic bonding. These two sororities are consistently ranked among the top sororities on USC's campus in scholarship. As a tribute to the hard work of their members, they decided to arrange a much-needed study break. Amidst a busy final week of classes, the two sororities hosted a joint sisterhood event at a local Columbia movie theater for a private showing of The Longest Ride, a movie adaptation of the Nicholas Sparks novel.

But it wasn't just an event to encourage sisterly bonding and meet other girls with similar interests. In addition to the night out together, the two sororities agreed to compete in a friendly competition over their chapters' spring GPAs. Whichever sorority has a higher semester GPA this spring will receive a donation to their philanthropy from the other sorority. Alpha Delta Pi's philanthropy is The Ronald McDonald House and Chi Omega's philanthropy is The Make A Wish Foundation.

“We're so excited to have celebrated the end of a successful academic semester with the ladies of Chi Omega," said Lane Christopher, Alpha Delta Pi Scholarship Chair. "Our members had such a great time at the movie night and we are thrilled about our new friendly competition." No matter which sorority comes out on top, a charitable donation will be made, and a tradition of friendship and academic achievement has been fostered among two incredible women's organizations on campus. Greek life, especially in the south, is often perceived as catty, competitive and even exclusive. It's wonderful to see how much Greek life as a whole is progressing, in that sororities can band together for a cause and form meaningful friendships while doing so.