It’s genuinely indescribable the first time you walk into a room full of women with the characteristics you hope to see in your future self. It captivates your mind, and this instant sense of familiarity hits as if you had a place there all along. For me, that was Sorority 101, Round 5: Alpha Xi Delta. And I am blessed to say; the feeling was mutual. On September 22, 2013, I accepted a bid and joined the Theta Xi Chapter at Florida International University.
Little did I know how much this organization would give me. I was elected Chapter President of both my sorority and a Greek Council within the same year. I won a Panhellenic Women of the Year scholarship. I wrote for my organization’s national website and was published. Helped restart my local Alumnae Association and served as Vice President of Membership for two years. I was the team captain for my Alumnae Association’s philanthropy that surpassed their first year’s monetary goal.
But more importantly, I got to be part of the best pledge class a girl could ever ask for. I met four girls who changed the game, and we became “go-tos” for each other. So much so that at one of the most challenging moments this summer, from 1,105 miles away, one of them picked up my phone call instantly. I haven’t seen her in almost three years. And yet, it was just like no time had passed, and she still knows me probably better than I know myself.
I learned the meaning of balance while working 2-3 jobs, being a full-time student, and active. I learned about love, loss, passion, pride, prejudice, justice, diversity, and striving towards your goals even in the most troubling times. That while those who are on the outside are never going to understand it (believe me, they never will), you do. And your letters, values, and ideas are shared across the nation with girls just like you. So even when you graduate from college, maybe even decide to pick up and move, someone in that town or city will probably be your sister. She will automatically have similar values to you, even though you might not know her last name. It’s the kind of beauty that truly stands the test of time.
This journey might not always be the easiest, but I can assure you that it will be worthwhile. Just like in life, what you put in is what you get, so work hard and give it all you have. Being in Greek life is about having the courage to serve others in your organization, but doing so with humility because that is what is expected of a leader. Being gracious and kind to everyone you come across, whether a member of your sisterhood or not. To live in peace, knowing the knowledge you receive from your college experiences will last a lifetime.
And just remember that “A sorority should be your last chance at being a girl, and your first chance at being a woman.” Good luck, and welcome to the rest of your life.
