Not many girls can say they joined a fraternity their freshman year - but I can. Joining Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed fraternity that has chapters at over 350 campuses across the United States, was one of the best decisions I've ever made. As a community service organization, I was able to make life-long friends while also helping out around campus, the community, and even the nation. By taking just a few hours every week to help others, I felt good that I was able to make a difference.

Alpha Phi Omega, or APO as most of us call it, accepts anyone that wants to join regardless of their gender. Although we partake in many of the typical "sorority/fraternity" rituals, we also have some of our own that we've passed down. We have bigs and littles that make up families, and each little makes their big a paddle for the end of the semester banquet. We dress up, team up with other Greek life, and proudly wear our Greek letters on our shirts or sweatshirts. But, unlike other sororities and fraternities, we decide to call the "pledges" new members, because (if the requirements have been met) everyone can join, so you are already accepted into our organization from the beginning.

As I mentioned before, APO revolves itself around community service. So, every week, you sign up for projects and help out by doing anything from pulling weeds to volunteering at food pantries to greeting soldiers that just came home. Each experience is different, and some might have their favorites, but they are all rewarding.

But, just because we're working hard doesn't mean that we don't take the time to socialize, which is a huge part of Greek life! We have a bunch of fellowships, and all new members and current brothers must attend a certain amount to meet new people and just have fun. But, that doesn't stop you from grabbing a bite to eat or some coffee with a brother or two on your own - APO is what you make it!

So, if you're just starting college this fall, or you're on your last semester, check out Alpha Phi Omega! No matter your age, major, or gender, we'd love to have you, and you might just find that APO is just what you've been missing.