Yes, I sure did! It was a very... interesting experience. If you have any questions about the awkwardness factor (which I experienced) and how to handle it, feel free to PM me.

No, it was meant for PNM's to keep an open mind and not close doors prematurely. A colony is not a consolation prize. It can be an opportunity. Obviously, to explore a colonizing group, it would have to be after Formal Rush.

I know several women who went thru formal Recruitment, didn't feel connected to the final choices that were available, then joined a colonizing sorority. They were able to make an impact quickly in the new organization by having leadership roles that may not have been available as early with an established house.

Even though I'm a new poster (lurked for awhile), it doesn't mean I lack background on this topic. Actually, I've been an Advisor at two universities (18 yrs exp) where colonization has taken place and went to a university when a new sorority colonized (& 6 of my friends joined the new group -- all as sophomores who had previously gone thru Formal Rush). Just because some PNM's didn't have a good experience on joining a colony after not pledging in FR, doesn't mean everyone will.

And not taking umbrage, as I'm well aware that upperclassmen have more of a challenge and am not trying to give anyone false hope, but if a PNM makes improvements (grades, activities, rec's, Greek contacts, etc.) for the 2nd time around, it would be unfair to give them NO hope.

Though, as the OP has now stated, the new house colonized last year and will be in Formal Recruitment this fall, so it doesn't apply in her case.

The women you already know in sororities can help you get recs. Why haven't you asked them? You are not getting what we mean by networking. Keep in mind that EVERY teacher you had went to college...and may know some sorority women. Tha applies to men as well. Their sisters could be Greek. Or Wives. Work that until the cows come home, honey! I don't mind giving a glowing rec to someone I don't know but that a trusted friend knows. Keep that in mind.....