GREEK OUT! An Insider's Guide to Sorority Life by School of Art, George Mason University

An Insider's Guide to Sorority Life Ashley Ruben

An Insider's Guide to Sorority Life

Copyright © 2021 by Ashley Ruben All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any manner without written permission by the copyright owner except for the use of quotations in a book review. Written, designed, and photographed by Ashley Ruben Published by BookBaby.com

To my family and friends who helped me follow my arrow...

Table of contents Section 1

Chapter 1: What are Sororities?................................................................................12 Chapter 2: The Ins and Outs of Recruitment......................................................18

Section 2

Chapter 3: The New Member Process...................................................................32 Chapter 4: Philanthropy.................................................................................................38 Chapter 5: Sorority Life is a Commitment............................................................42 Chapter 6: Leadership Opportunities.....................................................................48

Section 3

Chapter 7: Life as an Alumna......................................................................................56

Epilogue Glossary

Author’s note When I came to Mason three-and-a-half years ago, I didn’t expect to become so invested in the sorority experience. At that point in my life, I wasn’t even sure that I was cut out to be a graphic designer, let alone a sorority woman. I had just transferred from another Virginia school where I felt so worthless and inferior to my peers that I didn’t want to involve myself in anything on campus. I wasn’t even a graphic design major because of all the trauma I went through at my last school. Additionally, as a commuter student, my days would consist of driving to school, going to class, and then driving back home. Three semesters had passed and I was starting to feel quite lonely. I was never really the person to go to social outings and meet new people, and I’m still not. However, in order for me to achieve those friendships I was looking for, I had to put myself out there. I just wasn’t sure if sorority life was the way to do that. I was so caught up in the stereotypes that the media portrayed these women as that I didn’t want to associate myself with that. But I knew that sorority life at Mason would be different. My older sister was chapter president of her sorority at the time and I remember her talking so fondly of her experience that it made me want to be a part of something like that. I have been through so many obstacles in my life that it is in my nature to run away from my problems or just avoid them altogether, so I wasn’t going to let this opportunity slip through my fingers.

When I met the women of Pi Beta Phi, they saw me for me. Their chapter values aligned with my own and they supported me throughout every aspect of my college experience. They even encouraged me to pursue graphic design again because they knew that I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. Weaving my graphic design experience into my sorority involvement was believe it or not one of the best things I ever did. It has led me to create some amazing work for my portfolio, multiple leadership opportunities (most recently, I served as the Vice President of Public Relations for the Mason Panhellenic Council), as well as three internships within the past year, two of which have been with NPC organizations. I just know that 18-year-old me would be so proud of everything I have achieved and overcome these past four years. The theme of my high school yearbook that I designed was “One Thing Leads to Another” and I have really embodied that motto not only in college, but throughout my entire life. This saying can apply to pretty much anything will you face, even the decision to go Greek. But rest assured, if and when you decide that sorority life is right for you, just know that this will be an experience you will never forget. Pi Phi Love and Mine,

SPARKING INTEREST: HOW TO JOIN

CHAPTER 1

What exactly are sororities? Sororities are a place for women to gain meaningful lifelong friendships, develop leadership and professional skills, and be a part of something bigger than themselves. Whether you are an incoming first-year student, a transfer student or a current student looking for her people on campus, the sorority experience can offer a place for you to grow and develop as a person.

WHAT ARE SORORITIES?

Members of the Panhellenic Executive Council at High Point University.

Sororities are values-based social organizations that

were originally founded to provide women a space to gather and share common interests, often in times when women were excluded from other campus organizations and activities. College-age women banded together to form these women’s-only groups that provided intellectual and social connections with one another. The first fraternity for women was founded back in 1851 during a time of sexual discrimination towards women, especially women who sought out an education. Though things have changed over the past 170 years, the ideals and desire for strong bonds of friendship and academic connections still remain relevant today. Sororities were founded to support collegiate women, and as times change so do the needs of sorority women. Today’s sororities are built on a foundation of friendship that provides a unique community of support for women. By encouraging civic engagement and providing academic 14

support, sororities are a proven launch pad for women leaders. Sisterhood is also a huge aspect of why many women join a sorority, so that they can obtain a sense of belonging and friendship. Sorority members, through their shared experience, enjoy a sense of belonging, empowerment and personal development. Sorority life fosters a sisterhood in which members support one another academically, emotionally, professionally, and socially. Each sorority is designed to promote friendship and leadership, but each specific organization has its own ideals sisters are expected to hold.

“My mom was in a sorority and has always spoken so highly of her chapter. She still speaks to her sisters and I wanted to find forever friends like that as well. Members of Greek Life also always seem so involved at their universities and I thought it would be a great way to live my college days to the fullest extent.” -Devin Spear, Alpha Phi

“Sisters encourage other sisters to break out of their shells, to try new things, and the bonds we have created with each other are ultimately stronger because of this.” -LUCY CLARKE

ZETA TAU ALPHA 15

WHAT ARE Sororities? Different Types of Sororities There are many different kinds of sororities you can be a part of. Throughout this book, we will be focusing on the organizations housed under the National Panhellenic Conference. However, it’s important to note and recognize the other types of sororities that exist within different councils. Let’s learn about each type of sorority and how they operate: NPC The National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) promotes the ideals of scholarship, leadership, friendship and service. Formed in 1902, this organization aims to unite sorority sisters through the goals of improving their communities and upholding high academic standards. NPC organizations were founded as historically white sororities, but any woman of any background is able to join. The sororities that are members of the National Panhellenic Conference participate in primary recruitment, which gives potential new members a chance to visit with each chapter and follows a structured schedule of events. We will learn more about primary recruitment in chapter 2.

African-American Sororities The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), also known as the “Divine Nine” is the coordinating body for the historically African-American fraternities and sororities nationwide. Originally formed at Howard University in 1930, the NPHC advances equality for black men and women in Greek life through communication, workshops, initiatives, and collaboration. The nine largest Black Greek organizations belong to the NPHC, four of which are sororities. Even though these are historically Black sororities, any woman of any background can join. Cultural/Identity-Based Sororities The United Greek Council (UGC) is the governing body for cultural and identity-based fraternities and sororities. These organizations exist to develop and promote diversity and cultural awareness, and to encourage cooperation and cohesion among both member organizations and other organizations on campus. Members do not have to identify with a certain culture or identity to be able to join a UGC organization.

Sororities within the United Greek Council and National Pan-Hellenic Council participate in membership intake, which unlike Panhellenic recruitment is organized by the individual chapters. Each organization implements its own unique membership intake process, but universally, there are certain requirements one must meet in order to successfully join an organization within these councils. Such requirements are designed to promote the advancement of strong and effective chapters. Local Sororities Some campuses nationwide do not host sororities that have a national headquarters. These sororities are considered local sororities as they are unique to the campus they were founded on. These organizations conduct their own version of recruitment through informal events and are usually smaller in size and lesser-known to the public. Other Greek-Letter Organizations If you still want to be a part of a Greek organization, but not a social one, there are other kinds of fraternities that you can join. There are academic honor societies that bare Greek letters, as well as fraternities that are for specific majors and areas of study like business, STEM, and the arts. These non-social fraternities are usually co-ed, so that’s why the term “fraternity” is being used to describe these organizations. You are able to join as many academic fraternities as you wish, but you are only allowed to become a member of one social fraternity or sorority. Additionally, once you are an initiated member of a social sorority, you are ineligible to join another. For example, if you become a member of an NPHC sorority, you cannot seek membership within an NPC or UGC organization.

Sisters of Pi Beta Phi during their Bid Day celebration.

STEREOTYPE:

You can only join a sorority as a Freshman.

THE TRUTH:

As long as you’re an undergraduate student, you can join regardless of what year you are. Joining as a transfer student is also common.

CHAPTER 2

The ins and outs of Recruitment Recruitment is the process women interested in joining a sorority must participate in before being extended an invitation for membership. Everyone who decides to participate in recruitment has different reasons for doing so. Maybe you want to build a network to help you find a job. Maybe you want to create new friends in college. Whatever the reason is, joining a sorority can be one of the most valuable experiences you have in college.

SORORITY RUNNING HEAD RECRUITMENT

There are two types of NPC recruitment: formal and informal. Formal recruitment, also called primary recruitment, is the most common route women take to join a sorority on their campus. It is a three-to-four-day process where a potential new member, or PNM, visits and learns about each sorority on their campus, figuring out which sisterhood they want to be a part of. The Recruitment Process The primary recruitment process takes place over a single weekend and consists of an orientation period, three rounds of conversation, and Bid Day – a big celebration chapters hold to welcome their new members, marking the end of formal recruitment. The schedule of events may seem very rigid or overwhelming to some, so potential new members are assigned recruitment counselors to help work through any nerves they may have.

Sisters of Alpha Phi celebrating Bid Day.

A recruitment counselor is an active member of a sorority who serves as a mentor and confidant for PNMs throughout the recruitment process. She is specially trained in guiding potential new members through the ins and outs of recruitment and is temporarily disassociated from her chapter to provide an unbiased opinion and help PNMs make the decision of which chapter they will thrive in the most.

“I’m from a small town in North Carolina where everyone knows everyone, so moving out of state for college was pretty scary. I went out for formal recruitment my freshman year and ended up finding an amazing community of women both in my sorority and throughout the Panhellenic Council who share many core values as me like sincere friendship, respect and personal growth.” -Celeste Morris, Pi Beta Phi A sister of Kappa Delta is reunited with her chapter after disaffiliating.

SORORITY RECRUITMENT Recruitment Schedule Now, we will talk about a typical schedule of events that occur during recruitment weekend. Additionally, we will touch upon the types of conversations to have as well as what to wear each day. Orientation Orientation is where potential new members get a glimpse into the weekend ahead and learn about all the chapters on their campus. Here you will be able to get more information on what your weekend will be like. You will have the chance to briefly talk to every chapter before a small presentation on what you can expect from the weekend, as well as what to wear each day. During this time, you will also get to meet your recruitment counselor. You can go to them at any time to ask questions or express concerns. There is no set dress code for this event, so come as you are!

Day 1 Day one of recruitment is the sisterhood round, also known as open house. This is where you will be introduced to every chapter on your campus and learn a little bit more about who they are. Throughout the day, you will get a better idea as to what each chapter’s values are so that you are able to align the values of each organization to your own personal values. You will travel in small groups comprised of other PNMs with your recruitment counselors for the entirety of day one. You will be having get-to-know-you conversations in this round, including what hobbies and interests you have, where you call home, and much more. PNMs are usually provided with a recruitment t-shirt for day one which can be paired with jeans or a skirt and comfortable shoes.

A group of women throwing up their sorority’s hand signs. (From left to right: Phi Mu, Zeta Tau Alpha, Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha Chi Omega, Kappa Delta).

“I went Greek because I wanted to feel a sense of community and make ever-lasting friendships.” -Jordyn Cassar

Gamma Phi Beta 23

Sorority recruitment

Sisters of Alpha Phi at Christopher Newport University holding up glitter “Alpha Phi” letters.

Day 2 Day Two of recruitment is the philanthropy round. This is where chapters talk about the community service initiatives they take part in as well as any events that they host to support those beneficiaries. The number of chapters you visit on this day can vary based on how you ranked them at the end of round 1. You should expect to talk about how you have been involved in community service and how you see yourself contributing to your campus and your community. Additionally, each chapter you visit will discuss the requirements of membership, including academics, financial obligations, and time commitments, so it’s encouraged that you ask any questions you may have. Dress for this round is business casual, so a nice blouse and pants or a casual dress is encouraged. Day 3 Day 3 is the final day of recruitment known as preference round. You will have the chance to visit a maximum of two 24

chapters, and here you will learn some of the more sacred aspects and values of each chapter and why their members are so proud to call it home. During this round, you will be having deeper conversations about how you could fit into the chapter. You will be talking to members about why they chose their organization and how you could contribute to that sisterhood. Focus on what group is going to make you the best version of yourself. Clothing for this round is “Sunday Best” so a nice dress or a formal blouse with slacks will be suitable attire. MRABA At the conclusion of preference round, PNMs will make their final decision as to which sorority they want to become a member of. As you rank, you will be required to sign a form called the Membership Recruitment Acceptance Binding Agreement, or MRABA. This is a one-year binding agreement signed by a potential new member when ranking chapters after preference round. This agreement must be signed in order to receive a bid of membership from a sorority.

There are a number of outcomes that could occur during this time: You have the option to withdraw from the recruitment process before you rank. If this is the case, you may join a sorority at another time if you wish. If you decide to continue filling out the MRABA, you are willing to accept a bid from any sorority that you list on your contract. So, it’s important that you only list an organization (or organizations if you list two chapters) that you truly see yourself becoming a member of. If you don’t feel comfortable accepting a bid from a chapter you met during preference round, you are encouraged to not list them on your MRABA. Bid Day On Bid Day, new members receive their invitations, or bids, to join a sorority. New members will “run home” and officially meet their new sisters, so it’s a good idea to wear tennis shoes (you’ll thank me later). Chapters will organize fun activities for you to get to know your new member class and more members of the chapter that evening. However, before you celebrate, you must either accept or decline your bid, and this is where the MRABA comes into play. If you accept your bid, you are now a new member of that chapter. If you decline your bid, you are ineligible to join another NPC organization until the next formal recruitment period, which is typically a whole academic year after you receive your bid. The same rules apply if you accepted a bid from a chapter you no longer wish to be a part of. You may withdraw from the new member process at any time before initiation. It’s important to note that any woman who goes through the primary recruitment process is not guaranteed a bid. Formal recruitment is a mutual selection process where both the chapters and women going through recruitment must select one another. If you do not receive a bid from a

Sisters of Pi Beta Phi posing with wooden “Pi Phi” letters at Bid Day.

chapter or if you withdrew at any point during the primary recruitment process, you are eligible to join through COB since you are not bound to the MRABA.

“Before I joined Alpha Omicron Pi, I had a really hard time making friends and being social. When I went through recruitment, I met girls that accepted me for me.” - Isabella Johnson, Alpha Omicron Pi

SORORITY Recruitment RUNNING HEAD Informal Recruitment Continuous Open Bidding (COB) begins after the

conclusion of primary recruitment and continues throughout the academic year. You are only eligible to participate in COB if: you did not participate in primary recruitment, you dropped out of the primary recruitment process or you did not match with a chapter during primary recruitment, meaning you did not receive a bid from a chapter during primary recruitment. COB events are usually very relaxed and might include things like having a movie night, going bowling, or other informal activities. Participating sororities will contact you to invite you to attend their membership activities or host open events that anyone can attend. Keep in mind, you will not hear from every sorority regarding COB. Some chapters do fill their total during the formal recruitment process and therefore are not eligible to participate in COB.

Values-Based Recruitment The Panhellenic sorority recruitment experience is rooted in values – hence the term values-based recruitment. Each sorority has a set of values that they uphold daily and these values are a big part of what makes an organization so special to be a part of. This type of recruitment helps our organizations and members focus on their founding values and recruit women who understand and are committed to living out the values of their organizations. This recruitment approach allows members to be more intentional in conversation, discover shared interests and values among chapter members and potential new members and define membership expectations and standards more clearly. It also provides PNMs an opportunity to make informed decisions through a fair and unbiased experience. That is why we want to help you find out what your values are, why they are important to you and how you can express your values to others.

Key Takeaways While recruitment can be an exciting yet arduous process, it’s important to remember that not every woman wants to join a sorority, and that’s okay. In fact, most women don’t even plan on joining a sorority on their campus until they see first-hand how rewarding a sisterhood can be. The biggest piece of advice any sorority woman can give you is to keep an open mind about the recruitment process. Whether you go through primary recruitment or join through COB, you won’t know if sorority life is right for you until you put yourself out there and explore the possibilities.

Christopher Newport University’s Alpha Phi chapter celebrates Bid Day.

STEREOTYPE:

The only way you can join a sorority is through the formal recruitment process.

THE TRUTH:

Many women actually prefer informal recruitment as it can be a much more relaxed environment for both PNMs and initiated sisters. Members of the Panhellenic Executive Council at George Mason University.

PANHELLENIC PROFILE

Senior Juli Silinsky shares how she joined her sorority through the COB process. I began my time in sorority life during the fall of 2020. This was the first semester that COVID-19 forced recruitment to be virtual. At the time of virtual recruitment, I was extremely nervous to join a sorority. My past experiences with large groups of women had not been extremely positive, however, after seeing all the posts about recruitment and women accepting their bids, I chose to work past my anxieties and go through the Continuous Open Bidding process.

from home. As a transfer student in the middle of a pandemic, I did not feel like I was going to be able to find community and friendship, but Panhellenic gave me that. I am forever grateful for the COB process and the fact that sororities here are so welcoming of women in all stages of their education and life. My sorority has brought me great leadership opportunities and connections, both personal and professional.

-Juli Silinsky, Gamma Phi Beta I met with sister from Gamma Phi Beta and instantly fell in love. I felt like I found a community that truly supports me in my endeavors and made me feel like I had a home away 28

CONGRATS, YOU’RE IN A SORORITY! NOW WHAT?

CHAPTER 3

The Start of Something New Going through the new member education process with other new members can create some of the deepest and most enduring friendships between sorority women. The new member class is made up of other women who you enter the sisterhood with and through this new shared experience, many strong relationships can grow. This new member class will soon be the sisters welcoming future new members and sharing the sorority experience with them.

The new member process Navigating the New Member Process New member meetings are typically held one night a week, and the new member period can last as few as four weeks or span an entire semester, depending on the chapter. During this time, you learn about the history of your chapter, and your inter/national organization. Many scholarship, philanthropic and social activities are planned by the chapter to help you get to know your sisters and other members of your new member class. Big/Little During your new member period, you will be assigned a big sister, more commonly known as a Big . A Big is an initiated member of the sorority who acts just like a big sister: she is there to help you throughout sorority life, college life, and strives to be a positive role model. When becoming someone’s Little, there is a week dedicated to the newest big/little relationships called

Clue Week. Throughout the week, Littles will anonymously receive gift baskets along with a set of clues from their Big about who they are. This designated time not only helps the Little learn more about their Big but also gives them the opportunity to try and guess who their Big is (be careful, they’ll try to trick you!). The last day of Clue Week is Reveal Day, when Bigs finally reveal themselves to their Littles. Typically, Bigs will tell their Littles what to wear on Reveal Day so that they will coordinate with each other. Usually there’s a fun theme behind each reveal so that you can tell each relationship apart. Every Big and Little relationship is different, but what they share is a bond. It is a great opportunity for you to transition into both sorority and college life, especially if you join as a freshman or sophomore. The mentor-ship from a Big and Little relationship can be special and extends beyond the new member period throughout college and after graduation.

The new HEAD member process RUNNING

Initiation During your new member process, you learn public information about your chosen sorority – founders’ names, where and when the organization was founded, its colors, its philanthropies and so on. During the initiation ceremony, you will finally learn all the secret rituals, mottos, missions and symbol meanings unique to your organization that is not revealed to nonmembers. Only members of that particular sorority are ever allowed to know what the ritual contains and it’s their job to protect this knowledge as sacred – creating a bond that connects sisters for a lifetime, not only within their own chapters but with those at different campuses and across generations. Ritual is one of the many building blocks of sorority

Members of the Mason Panhellenic Executive Council.

that add to a strong and thriving sisterhood and sense of belonging. All you need to prepare as a new member is to keep an open mind and be excited to learn more about your organization. You may also want to take this time to reflect on why you joined your organization and be present in the moment. Your initiation will be an experience you reflect on many times throughout your collegiate and alumna journey.

“As a new member, I was taught that the foundational precept of Zeta Tau Alpha was love, the greatest of all things. My sisters make it easy for me to remember that every day. Whether I am grieving a loss, recovering from a horrible car accident, or struggling to find a sense of purpose during a global pandemic, my sisters are always one of the first people I lean on. It’s crazy to think I feel so much love and acceptance and ultimately help lead an organization that I was once so scared to join.” -Kat Sharma, Zeta Tau Alpha Sisters of Gamma Phi Beta, Epsilon Pi chapter.

“I’ve made friends with girls who want nothing but the best for me, and that’s more than I could ask for.” -Nicole Evangelou

Zeta Tau Alpha 37

CHAPTER 4

Giving back As active citizens, sorority women take charge of their role in the community and constantly strive to make the world a better place. By participating in philanthropy and service events, sorority members make an impact in the community and become more creative, caring and empathic people. But, what do philanthropy and service activities actually look like for sorority women? Let’s find out...

PHILANTHROPY

Sisters of Alpha Omicron Pi share a laugh after being pied in the face for charity.

Every Greek organization has a philanthropic partner and/or beneficiary that they serve. Member organizations work to instill the understanding and value that good citizenship is important to care for others. Improving the community and volunteering teaches women of all ages compassion and understanding.

So what is the difference between philanthropy and service? Philanthropy promotes the positive welfare of others through the generous donation of goods or money to a charity or nonprofit organization. Service is a hands-on experience where you interact with a cause or organization to provide them a service.

Each year, sorority women raise millions of dollars for philanthropic causes and donate hundreds of hours of their time. Undergraduate members will organize and plan fundraisers for national philanthropic partners. In addition, many chapters will give their time to local organizations and create partnerships with them. Civic engagement is encouraged for all sorority women.

Each sorority has a cause they care about and raise funds for. The philanthropic events a chapter hosts provide vital funds to organizations that aid in research, education, awareness and more for each cause that they donate to. Philanthropy events can range from something as engaging as a sporting event to a more charitable activity like a book drive.

Sorority membership gives women a platform to be active citizens and make an impact on the lives of others. In high school, many sorority women participate in organizations where they learned the positive experience that community service provides. In college, they want to continue serving others, and joining a sorority a great way to connect with other women while giving back to the community. Community service broadens the view sorority women have of the world and helps them understand the societal needs of others. It is through giving of ourselves and our time that we become more empathic people. Community engagement also fosters a unique connection between sorority women and their local community. As a chapter, women grow closer together through this shared experience.

A sister of Alpha Phi practicing before the “Alpha Phifa” soccer tournament.

STEREOTYPE:

Sorority women do not participate in community service activities.

THE TRUTH:

Philanthropic service is one of the core essentials of sorority life. Chapter philanthropies include the Ronald McDonald House, the Alzheimer’s Association, and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. The winning team of “Alpha Phifa” celebrates their victory.

CHAPTER 5

Sorority life is a commitment The Panhellenic community prides itself on high levels of participation in university and council events that occur throughout the school year. While there are many optional events provided within each chapter, members should expect their attendance to be required at chapter meetings, philanthropy events and any other mandatory programming within the cost of dues. The three biggest factors that influence the sorority experience are academics, finances, and jobs. Let’s explore each factor a bit more in-depth and learn how they influence the sorority experience.

SORORITY LIFE IS A COMMITMENT

Members of the Panhellenic Executive Council at High Point University.

Academics Academics are an incredibly important part of the sorority experience because each woman is in college to obtain her degree. Many sororities require a certain GPA for their members in order to maintain good standing. This means you wouldn’t be able to participate in social activities without keeping up good grades. Sororities also connect you to fellow students with different academic strengths and concentrations. Individual chapters as well as their councils have scholarship chairs and academic programming to help members succeed in the classroom. Finances Joining a sorority comes with a financial obligation, often referred to as dues by sorority women. Sorority membership dues are fees paid to a chapter or inter/national organization to fund things such as events, chapter programming and operational expenses relating to that specific chapter. 44

Because chapter activities vary, there is no one-size-fits-all breakdown of what chapter dues will include. All membership dues are invested back into the enrichment of the membership. The vary of how much dues cost is a wide range. This range is due to activities and educational programming sorority women participate in, but largely the cost difference is heavily dependent upon housing. If you live in a sorority house or have housing fees, the cost will likely be higher to cover those costs. Joining a Panhellenic chapter carries a financial commitment that is expected to be fulfilled throughout the years of chapter membership. The financial obligations of membership are often met by the member themselves through a job or customized payment plans. The cost of dues differs between chapters, so it is important to ask questions about finances during recruitment.

It’s also important to note that new member dues are significantly higher than the dues of initiated sisters. Not only is this because it’s their first semester of membership, but new member dues include several one-time costs, such as national fees and a membership pin. Additionally, if you do not pay your new member dues, you will not be initiated until your balance is paid off. Jobs Many sisters hold jobs or internships during their time as a collegian. These outside opportunities serve as great exposure to what they can expect after graduation. In fact, many sisters use the money they earn from their job or internship to pay for their dues, fees, and other sorority expenses. Networking is a crucial part of the sorority experience as you will gain so many connections. Additionally, including sorority involvement on your resumé can be a great topic of conversation during an interview, especially if you’ve held a leadership position. Who knows, maybe your sisters will help you land your next job.

“As an out of state student where nearly every aspect of college being online, I was longing to find a community where I would feel at home. I decided to go through formal recruitment in Fall 2020 and was blessed to find a true sisterhood in Chi Omega. Though my first year in the Panhellenic community was certainly a bit different, it has given me the opportunity to grow as an individual and leader and to surround myself with the most kind, genuine, and driven women. As cliché as it sounds, rushing was one of the best decisions I could’ve made for myself and I am forever grateful for the Panhellenic experience.” -Mackenzie McGreer, Chi Omega

Members of the Mason Panhellenic Executive Council.

STEREOTYPE:

Sorority women do not thrive in the classroom.

THE TRUTH:

Members of Greek Life have consistently achieved higher grade point averages and graduate at a significantly higher rate than non-Greek Students. In fact, our members study a range of academic disciplines from business to education to the fine arts.

PANHELLENIC PROFILE

Junior SYDNEY SPENCER shares her experience BEING IN A sorority as THEATRE MAJOR. I always knew that I wanted to join a sorority. Not only are both my sisters in sororities, but I come from pageantry, and a lot of pageant girls that I know have all had positive experiences in Greek Life. From that moment, I knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of.

During recruitment, everyone I met with was so delighted to learn that I take theatre classes, but the ladies of Alpha Phi saw me for more than that. When I ran home to Alpha Phi, I knew that they would not only support my studies, but support me in all aspects of my life.

Even though I was pretty certain about my decision to go Greek, I did feel a bit apprehensive at times because I am a theatre major - not a lot of women studying fine arts disciplines can fully commit to something as time-consuming as a sorority, but I needed to go through formal recruitment in order to figure out if it was possible for me to invest my time into an organization like this.

Last semester, I got the lead in a school production and when I told my sisters about it, they were so ecstatic. They even came to my opening night! I was so happy to see them and that alone reaffirmed that I made the right decision and I couldn’t be happier.

-Sydney Spencer, Alpha Phi

CHAPTER 6

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Towards the end of the fall academic term, active members choose the next group of officers to oversee chapter operations for the next year. This is a great opportunity to serve your organization, grow professional and leadership skills, and network within your organization. Many sorority women want to take advantage of these opportunities but aren’t sure what this responsibility would entail. Before jumping into an officer role, you should know what to expect first.

LEADERSHIP opportunities Letters Today, Leaders Tomorrow Sorority chapter officers are those elected by the chapter to run the daily welfare of the organization. They organize all functions of the chapter, handle finances, provide resources and educational programs to members, and many more responsibilities. Every member organization has its own way of selecting officers, but most organizations use a slating process. The slating process is where chapter members come together to choose officers from candidates who have asked to be considered for positions. The slate can be decided by a committee of members or by the

chapter collectively. There is usually an application and interview process involved in order to be slated for a leadership position. Aside from the countless opportunities for personal growth, leadership and networking, holding a position in a sorority is a great way to get involved within the chapter and the campus community. However, for some, taking on a leadership role can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re new to the chapter. Special committees are implemented within all 26 organizations so that women can still take on some responsibility, but at a much smaller level.

“Being part of a sorority helps inspire me to be the best version of myself that I can be.” -Annalise Emons Kappa Delta

PANHELLENIC PROFILE

Senior Elizabeth Wanersten shares her experience as panhellenic president. My freshman year, I was unsure about joining a Greek organization. Nobody in my family had ever gone Greek so I was entering uncharted territory. Even so, I decided to go through with the recruitment process and was able to find a group of strong women that have served as my support system throughout my time in the chapter. I have also had the great privilege of serving on the Panhellenic Executive Council for the past two years, as both Vice President and now President. In that time, I have had the opportunity to work with other Greek Councils on Mason’s campus and work with a team of incredible women. My time on Panhellenic has allowed me to grow as a leader and 52

I am very grateful for my decision to join the Greek community. I never thought that I would be in a position to lead 500+ women, but being Panhellenic President granted me that opportunity. In this role I have learned how to work on my communication skills, patience, and have a better understanding as to how Greek Life works. This has been one of the highlights of my undergraduate career and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

-Elizabeth Wanersten, Alpha Xi Delta

THE END IS JUST THE BEGINNING

CHAPTER 7

Life as an Alum Congratulations! You’ve finished school and become an alumna of your sorority. Finishing college is a huge deal. Your sorority experience has likely guided you and the thought of those days behind you can be a little saddening. Luckily, just because you’ve graduated college, your sorority membership doesn’t end. Being a sorority member means lifelong membership. Let’s look at how you can stay an active member of your organization now that you’re an alumna.

LIFE AS AN ALUM

Three Alpha Phi seniors at CNU celebrate their final Bid Day.

Staying Involved When you first joined your organization, you joined for life. This lifetime membership grants you certain privileges such as professional development and networking, volunteer opportunities, and more. Once you leave campus, alumnae membership can be very rewarding and help you make connections with women all around the world. Alumnae Chapters All sororities encourage active involvement after graduation. One way they do this is by offering alumnae chapters that graduated members can join. Alumnae chapters function much like collegiate chapters where they host meetings, hold sisterhood events and participate in service activities. They also offer additional opportunities such as being on an Alumni Advisory Committee, or AAC, and supervising local collegiate chapters. Being in an alumnae chapter allows you to meet more sisters from a variety of chapters and continue to grow meaningful relationships with other women. Alumnae chapters also allow women to continue growth through leadership opportunities and networking. Volunteer Opportunities In addition to joining an alumnae group, you can volunteer as an alumna . All member organizations offer a plethora of volunteer opportunities, so you can be as involved as your schedule allows. Volunteer opportunities range from participating in a small community service project to helping coordinate an annual leadership seminar. If you want to be more involved, you can volunteer regionally or even at the chapter level. It is encouraged you speak to your member organization to figure out what level of volunteering is best for you.

Members of the Panhellenic Executive Council at George Mason University. 58

“My Panhellenic experience shaped me into the professional that I am today.”

-LEIGH BURTE

GAMMA PHI BETA ALUMNA 59

EPILOGUE

An Experience Like No Other Many women who join Greek life look back on their experiences fondly. From lasting friendships to leadership skill-building and career advancement, joining a Greek letter organization offers a myriad of lifelong benefits. Still, these organizations cost money and require a significant time commitment, so do your research and figure out if sorority life is right for you. If it is, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

GREEK GLOSSARY

GREEK TERMINOLOGY As you learn more about Greek Life, you may come across unfamiliar terms during different parts of your membership journey. Here’s what you need to know: ACTIVE MEMBER

Charter

A fully initiated member of a sorority who is currently participating as a member on their campus.

Documentation that an individual chapter is recognized and operates according to the inter/national organization they’re a part of.

ALUMNA

A graduate of one’s collegiate chapter.

Continuous Open Bidding

An insignia of fraternity or sorority membership that is worn only by initiated members. New members have their own designated pins that they wear before they are initiated.

The process of extending bids on an individual basis immediately following the formal recruitment period. Also known as informal recruitment, the COB process is less formal, and not all chapters will participate in continuous open bidding.

Bid

Disaffiliation

A formal invitation to join a sorority.

When a recruitment counselor temporarily separates herself from her sorority during the recruitment process to act as an unbiased resource for members participating in recruitment. After the recruitment process, she rejoins her sorority.

Badge

Big

An active member of a collegiate chapter assigned to be a personal mentor for a new member. Chapter

A membership unit of a national or international fraternity or sorority.

Formal Recruitment

A membership recruitment period during which a series of organized

rounds are held by each NPC sorority, organized and implemented by the Panhellenic Council. Initiation

A traditional ceremony that brings a new member into full membership of a sorority or fraternity. Once you are initiated into a social sorority, you are ineligible to become a member of any other social sorority. Legacy*

A daughter, sister or granddaughter of an initiated member of a sorority. *Being a legacy does not guarantee membership into that specific sorority. Each NPC member organization has its own policy for invitations to legacies during recruitment.

Membership Recruitment Acceptance Binding Agreement (MRABA)

This is a one-year binding agreement signed by a PNM when ranking chapters after preference round.

The National Panhellenic Conference

The umbrella body for 26 national women’s fraternities and sororities.

Each potential new member will be assigned a recruitment counselor during primary recruitment.

LEARN The Greek Alphabet

Ritual

A woman who has accepted a bid from a sorority but is not yet an initiated, active member of that chapter. Chapters will have a new member process during which the new members learn more about the sorority and prepare them for initiation.

The private traditions and practices of a sorority deeply rooted in the shared values and purpose of the members. Ritual serves as a reminder to each member of her responsibilities and inspires her to fulfill them. Rituals connect the past with the present and the future.

Panhellenic Council

Service

A council consisting of an executive board and chapter delegates from every active sorority on campus.

A hands-on experience where you interact with a cause or organization to provide them a service.

Philanthropy

Sorority

Fundraisers, projects, events, or donations to raise money for nationally sponsored charitable organizations.

Values-based social organizations that were originally founded to provide women a space to gather and share common interests, often in times when women were excluded from other campus organizations and activities.

New Member

Potential New Member (PNM)

A student who is not yet affiliated with a chapter and is interested in becoming a part of the Fraternity and Sorority community. Recruitment Counselor

A current member of a sorority who is disaffiliated from her chapter during recruitment in order to guide PNMs through the recruitment process. They are a resource for questions or concerns during primary recruitment.

Values-Based Recruitment

A recruitment style that focuses on meaningful conversations between collegiate members and potential new members with the goal of recruiting women who will have a positive impact on chapters and the College Panhellenic community. The focus is on the values, benefits and obligations of membership for each organization.

Α - Alpha Β - Beta Γ - Gamma Δ - Delta E - Epsilon Ζ - Zeta Η - Eta Θ - Theta Ι - Iota Κ - Kappa Λ - Lambda Μ - Mu Ν - Nu Ξ - Xi Ο - Omicron Π - Pi Ρ - Rho Σ - Sigma Τ - Tau Υ - Upsilon Φ - Phi Χ - Chi Ψ - Psi Ω - Omega

ABOUT THIS BOOK This book serves as an insider’s guide for readers to learn all about the sorority experience. Every organization on every campus is different, but their structure is essentially the same, so this book will run through the foundational aspects of sorority life in three different stages of membership: as a potential new member, as an active member, and as an alumna. There are also a lot of stereotypes and preconceived notions about sorority women as well as Greek Life in general that turn people off, so this book also helps shatter those stereotypes and provides insight on the real sorority experience.