Why did you choose your sorority/fraternity?
 

Hello,

I'm in High School and am very intersetd in Greek life http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif I was just wondering if you could share your reasons for joining your particular sorority/fraternity! And, how did you know it was the right one for you, considering that during Rush you are meeting members who are complete strangers? Thank you!

Hey Newbie!!!

It's so good to hear you're interested in greek life. I chose my sorority, Sigma Alpha, because of my major. Sigma Alpha is a professional and social sorority for women pursuing careers in agriculture. Don't get me wrong though...we have non ag majors as well. I can honestly say that during high school I had no intentions of going Greek. I had heard all of the stereotypical stories about Greeks. Once I got to college though and saw how awesome the girls were...I couldn't help but rush. I'm really glad that I decided to go Greek because it was probably the best thing I could have done. Not only am I making friendships that will last a lifetime but I'm making contacts in the business world. Well that's my story. I wish you the best of luck with the rest of high school.

Keep us posted!!!



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~A cloudy day is no match for a sunny disposition~

I chose my sorority because it was one of the smaller ones on campus - I wanted to know my sisters and not feel like a number. Also because the majority of my sisters were about a million miles away from the "rich beautiful snob" stereotype. We were all so different, yet we were able to come together and build extremely strong bonds.

If at rush - you meet strangers and feel like you've just met long lost friends - that is the place for you!

I also joined Sigma Alpha. I'm an Agbusiness Major. When i was in High School i did not want to join a sorority, b/c of stories i had heard. Sigma Alpha is a Professional Agriculture Sorority. We all share a common intrest. My chaper is very small we have 9 members. Although some stories you hear about greeks may be true don't beleive all of them. Find out if there is a sorority for your major and go to the meetings if your not interested find a social/general sorority or start one of your own.

Thanks everyoine for your stories and advice!! I will definitely keep you all posted http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif My sister was a KD (she graduated last year from college), and she has told me all these stories of how much she loves her sorority, and what her sorority did for the community http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif So despite the negative views the media has on Greek life, I know that Greek life is definitely a good thing!

I cannot wait fro College and Rush to start hehee http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif I just wanted to ask you guys because my sister is extremely biased about KD, and I don't want to disappoit her if for some reason I don't join Kappa Delta!

Keep the stories coming, thanks! Have a great weekend everyone!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

P.S. Does Sigma Alpha count as a professional sorority as opposed to a social one? Thank you!

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited February 24, 2001).]

When I went through Formal Rush I was never intending to ever go greek. I just wanted to get a chance to meet some new people. Rush also gave me a chance to keep my mind off of some horrible stuff that was going on in my life at the time. Well by the end of the week I felt so at home with this one group of girls that I knew I had to become one of their sisters. They were also teriffic with helping me to feel better. To this day I know that I made the right choice and that I am exactly where I belong.

Are there any BGLO members who want to share their reasons for choosing your respective organizations?

As a high school student and college freshman, I was not interested in rushing - what I knew about greek life was limited to the stereotypes.

When I arrived at college, I decided to look into the sorority experience, after hearing a lot of positive comments about sisterhood from women I respected, and whose POV I valued. I educated myself about the histories of women's fraternities and sororities, and looked into a couple sororities that were on campus. I was really impressed by the ideals of the organizations I looked into, and I loved meeting the members.

Yet, there was something essential that I was looking for in a sisterhood that I had not found yet in any sorority. Almost by chance, I found out about Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies a social sorority for women pursuing degrees in a variety of scientific and technical fields.

I realized that forming a bond with women who I could interact with in classes, as well who shared my professional goals, was important to me. I knew it was right for me because the members I met placed the greatest importance on excelling academically and professionally, and they were supportive of each other as friends as well as professionals. The women I met from the Alpha Chapter and the National Board were all strangers, but there was an instant connection between us - I remember having to run off to class a short time after welcoming them to campus for the first time - and they not only understood, but they made sure that I went! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/wink.gif

Ultimately, I helped found the Beta Chapter of Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies at the University of Oklahoma. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

Best wishes with your rush experience!

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Pure as Silver, and True Blue!
Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies

Hi Newbie,

The main reason that I joined Delta Zeta was because the sisters seemed to be so genuine during Rush. I was a little shy and didn't know hardly anything about sororities when I went to college. It was actually my mother's suggestion that I go through Rush so that I could meet people.

At the Rush parties, the DZ girls made me feel extremely comfortable. It wasn't that I didn't like the other sororities - I did. I was actually a little torn between DZ and one other house right up until Pref Night. But after the preference party, I knew that I was going to be a DZ or nothing.

It's hard to describe how I knew that DZ was the right choice for me. I think that what impressed me the most was that the sisters were all individuals - they each had their own interests. Some were athletic and outgoing, some were shy and reserved, some were brainy, some were social butterflies. I knew that I wouldn't have to "conform" in order to feel welcome in Delta Zeta.

I hope this helps you out, Newbie. Oh, and about your sister being a KD. My big sister's mother was a member of another sorority, so she put a ton of pressure on her to go with that group. Instead, my big sister followed her heart and went DZ. She has never regretted it. Her mother, after meeting the Delta Zeta sisters for herself, agreed that my big sister made a wonderful choice.

Good luck!
Carrie

I have dreamed of being a Lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated for a very long time.

The reason is the organization in itself is comprised of powerfull women of a prodominantly Black background and that have taken thier actions in the communtiy to a new level. A level of true commitment to furthering the black community is astounding.

Another reason why I wanted to join was because of the legacy that these women have laid down as true Ladies of society and coporate America. I felt that I to emulate these characteristics and that I would be at home in this sisterhood. And I was right.

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#1 DRAMA QUEEN
Spring 2001
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY INC.
GAMMA EPSILON CHAPTER

The reason I picked Chi Omega, is that Chi Omega was founded at my school, University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Chi Omega is the largest soroity with great members and wonderful alumni members. I encourage you to rush Chi Omega because truly you end up with life long friends to the end.

I chose Chi Omega for numerous reasons. I was new to my school and did not know anyone, which is why I decided to rush. During rush, I met so many wonderful people at each of the houses but Chi O stuck out in my mind. I could just see the strong sisterhood that the girls had and I knew that I wanted to be part of something so special. I am graduating in 2 months and can honestly say that college has been everything I have wanted and more, and Chi O has so much to do with that!!

Good luck with rush!

Love-
MAY

When I came to college, I only knew 4 or 5 people on my campus, so I decided to go through Recruitment to meet people. Some of the women in my family were pressuring me to join a particular organization, but I was honestly assuming that I would not join anything at all. (I did, and it's the best thing that has happened to me!) Our recruitment is only 4 days long, so it is VERY difficult to determine where you belong. You just have to follow your heart and have faith that you will end up where you were meant to be.

I will say this, though - it is better to go into recruitment NOT knowing other people's opinions of the chapters on your campus, because it lets you go where you want without worrying about trying to get into the most popular organization. At the same time, remember that every chapter wants to put its best foot forward during recruitment, and that it is your responsibility to look past the surface and see what those women are really all about. . . and then decide if that's the kind of person you are also.


[This message has been edited by squirrly (edited March 09, 2001).]

I came to choose Alpha Phi Omega because their Cardinal Principles of Leadership, Friendship, and Service is what I hold precious.

Hi Newbie,

Not sure how you mean "count as," but we are considered a professional GLO. However, unlike many professional GLOs, we do not allow dual membership in Sigma Alpha and a social fraternity/sorority. Hope this helps! Good luck in your Greek life! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

It is hard for me to say why I chose LXA as I had started a local and we were tuned down by many major Nationals. I was suggested by the TKE advisor to come LXA. In doing so we had a visit not only from them but Theta Chi.

In a 14 hour meeting We decided to affiliate with LXA and I have never looked back.
I may not agree with everything as some of my Brothers can attest to having seen me on the International Site but I have been involved with the Fraternity for 36 years and met some Great Brothers from all over the country!!!!

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Tom Earp LX Z#1
Pittsburg State U. (Kansas)

I guess you could say that Delta Tau Delta chose me. I did not go through formal rush per se. I was working at the University radio station, and two of the older guys at the station were Delts -- and really good guys. I only knew a few Greeks at the time, but was dating an Alpha Gam Pledge and was friends with a Chi-O and Pi Phi Pledge in my Honors English Class.

The Delts invited me and a good friend to a "smoker," which consisted mostly of a formal dinner at the Delt Shelter (A grand old red brick house with white Greek columns in front)and conversation afterward.

I really enjoyed the dinner, and was especially impressed with the respect shown the house mother. The entire Chapter was in jacket and tie (required for any dinner at the House in those days) and nobody sat down until she was escorted in and seated at the head of the table by the Chapter President (or Pledge President) at any meal -- very classy.

After dinner, we sat around the table and sang some of the old fraternity songs -- and then went into the living room for cigars (which I passed on since I don't smoke) and the rush part of the evening. It was then that the guys talked about academics, philanthrophy, emotional and moral growth, the history of the Fraternity and the Chapter -- what we call "Living Lives of Excellence -- and, of course, the social (party) side of the group as well.

I was pretty impressed.

I had no intention whatsoever of pledging any fraternity, but I really seemed to click with these guys. They invited me and my friend back the following night and extended bids to both of us.

Well, that's how the Delts did it in the sixties. Thankfully, the rest, as they say, is history.

Fraternally,
DeltAlum

[This message has been edited by DeltAlum (edited March 20, 2001).]

Thanks for all your stories!! You guys are really nice! Gosh I'm really addicted to Greekchat...I'm supposed to be studying!!! OK OK, I'll get offline now http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited April 01, 2001).]

Thank you MissSGRho!!

Well, fist let me say that Kappa Delta is a great sorority BUT that doesn't mean it is the only one for you. I suggest going through recruitment with an open mind!

I would have to say that I found KD to be one of the most well rounded sororities out there. KD is a respected national organization with such great oppurtunities for all levels of members. We have wonderful national support to all our 125 chapters, awesome programming (college level and alumnae),400+ alumnae associations, Girl Scouts as one of our National Philanthropies, and MUCH more, but I'm sure your sis has filled you in! There isn't much I can say that she hasn't
already ...what I can tell you is that KD will change your life for the better, KD teaches you to strive for the best and gives you the tools to accomplish anything you desire!

Good Luck with Recruitment and Keep us posted! By the way, where are you going to school in the Fall?

Tell your sis I said HI and bunches of LOVE in AOT!

I am a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. I joined this organization because the women of this organization are absolutley phenomenal. Sigma Gamma Rho sorority, inc is a community service driven organization with a great emphasis scholarship. I have met some of the most awesome, dynamic, and committed women since I have been a member. You find women of Sigma Gamma Rho in all walks of life. The sisterhood here is so real.

I posted a response on another thread similar to this issue, but I'll post again I entered George Mason U. in the Fall of 1994 as a transfer and was a rugby player. One of my hallmates invited me out to a PKA event where we met the brothers. It was pretty cool, but new to me because I was all new to greek life and was unsure about it. The next week I went to another PKA event, a pizza party and had a good time. Although the rest of the week I never heard from them. So I was a little dismayed and I didnt look at other Fraternities. Well, I decided after that experience I was going to do some research, check everyone out over the course of the semester, and go for it the next semester. Well, during that fall semester I had this great guy in one of my Government classes and we always ran into each other at this local bar(fat tuesday's) and he always offered me a ride back after last call. I never brought up the fact he was greek. The next semester I came out for Spring Rush. I went to a few KA events and they were pretty cool, but I wanted to check someone else out so I went to one Beta function. When I went to that Beta function I knew it right then and there thats what I wanted. The guys were so friendly, geniune, classy, lots of fun, athletic, sharp and the ladies there had many nice things to say about Beta too. Well, that next week I got a bid from the President and I was so estatic. Then during my pledge period my big brother turned out to be the guy who I mentioned from the previous semester in my government class. I had many great times with my Brothers and made many life long friendships. Looking back on it I would never have wanted to go for any other Fraternity. I will be a Beta till I die.

Kevin
Beta Theta Pi Alum
Epsilon Mu Chapter
Sigma Class 1994
George Mason University



[This message has been edited by Miami1839 (edited April 03, 2001).]

I joined Delta Upsilon because they were non-secret and made me feel very welcomed http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif. The other fraternitys I rushed were very cold and evasive when I asked questions about their organisation http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif. So I went where I felt wanted http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/wink.gif.

hi newbie...you will love formal rush its a lil stressful but exciting. I just went through it this fall and I picked ASA b/c I fit in perfectly and we were the only ones on my campus without a stereotype. So I just followed my own heart and I already know now that I made the perfect choice, and I love it. A..A..A with an S.
S..S..S with an A.
A with an S...S with an A
ASA HEY!!!
Alpha love and mine, ASAgirl

Because our last president and historian talked me and my friend into rushing.

BIG MISTAKE! Now I want to leave and join another one and my friend left after 5 days after she accepted her bid, she was smart! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif

And I never thought that peer pressure can effect you in your college years. Well now I know better. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

Because our last president and historian talked me and my friend into rushing.

BIG MISTAKE! Now I want to leave and join another one and my friend left after 5 days after she accepted her bid, she was smart! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif

And I never thought that peer pressure can effect you in your college years. Well now I know better. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

I joined my house (Phi Mu) because it was the only one i truely felt like i could relax in... My school has the biggest greek system in the country and on Open House weekend I toured all 25 sororities...when i got to the last house (Phi Mu) the girl I talked to was so relaxed and so genuine. I had had in my head what house i wanted to be in before I even rushed, but during pref I found myself putting Phi Mu in front of them. I joined a house full of girls who laugh more, talk more and have more fun then any group of girls i have ever known...i joined a house of 130 ladies who know what sisterhood is about...and i am thankful for that everytime I step inside.

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Smile Pep Charm Style that's what we have...but most of all you'll love our laugh (whooaa)

I also thought about rushing before I even came to college. Going greek was the best decision I have made in college. I encourage you to do formal rush in the fall at whichever school you are off to because this is when you will see all the sororities at an equal level. I chose to pledge my honor to the sisterhood of Pi Beta Phi( the very first sorority! April 21, 1867!).

I had heard so many wonderful things about Pi Phi in high school from local alumns and girls that came back from college to visit. As a matter of fact four consecutive Homecoming queens from my school ( including me!) went Pi Phi in college! During formal rush, on spirit night, you will most likely receive refreshments. In the Pi Phi rush party, my plastic champagne glass bottom fell off and I spilled sparkling cider all over the sister I was talking to! I was so embarrassed and slightly intimidated because all these girls were gorgeous and dressed in cute WHITE rush outfits! She looked at me and just started busting out laughing with me. She totally turned it into joke and I felt so comfortable.

I knew Pi Phi was a strong chapter nationally. There's TONS of alumn support and so many connections. Everywhere you go there's a sister. On my campus, there has never been an ill word spoken of Pi Phi. Our girls are so well rounded, classy, and approachable. They can outdrink the boys with style and grace at all the frat parties, yet have just as much fun studying and gorging on Jolly Ranchers at the library or spending the night in with a movie and Ben and Jerry! I feel comfortable calling any of our 100+ members to vent or laugh or just because I want to grab some frozen yogurt.

And look at the girls you are rushing with! On pref night...look around and see what kind of girls are there. If you see that girl from your Phil 101 class that you can't stand, be cautious. On the other hand, if you see a girl that you love from your Ro Chi group, it's a plus. Keep in mind that you will spend a lot of time with your pledge class. These girls become your closest friends in college and beyond. I am lucky to say that my entire pledge class is absolutely wonderful! I love them all and we respect and admire eachother for our values and beliefs and individual personalities. Listen to what the fraternity guys say as well. I know that sounds superficial, but that's when the truth comes out about certain reputations that chapters have on campus. I hope I helped some! Good luck with everything. I am sure that whatever sorority you pledge, you will never regret it. Like they say...whatever the letter, greeks do it better!

PBPCK--are you talking about on your campus that Pi Phi's are the oldest sorority? Becuase ADPi is the oldest founded in 1851 followed by Phi Mu in 1852.....just wanted to clarify.....

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Smile Pep Charm Style that's what we have...but most of all you'll love our laugh (whooaa)

I beleive that ADPi And Phi Mu were the first two "secret societies" for women. Pi Phi is considered the first national women's fraternity. Although we did not adopt greek letters until 1888, we were founded as I.C. Sorosis at Monmouth College in Ill. in 1867 and expanded to Iowa Wesleyan University (1869) and Mt Pleasant Seminary(1869). Therefore we were the first national fraternity for women.

Oh yeah...and Pi Phi was also one of the seven fouding groups of NPC, the first to organize and almnae department, the first to establish a national philanthropy, and the first to establish an Alumnae Advisory Committee for each collegiate chapter!

Okay, the definition of "FRATERNITY" in my New Member Manual states: "a group of people associated for a common purpose".

Prior to 1882, these organizations were referred to as "womens fraternities". It wasn't until 1882 that Professor Frank Smalley coined the term "sorority" for GPhiB.

I've been taught that even though ADPi was founded as a secret society in 1851 (Phi Mu in 1852), they are still the first womens fraternity. After all, these are women who associated for a common purpose, and that's what a fraternity is.

In addition to that, Kappa Alpha Theta claims another first--the first to be founded with Greek letters.

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"Talk doesn't cook rice."--Someone smart

Visit Alpha Gamma Delta-Delta Sigma chapter!

We've been told the same thing....first ADpi then us....since this school is huge in the greek I looked it up on the rosters and that is what it says ADPi is listed as the first women's fraternity

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Smile Pep Charm Style that's what we have...but most of all you'll love our laugh (whooaa)

I'm glad that you are thinking about pledging.I think everyone will agree with me when I say that if each of us could pledge again we would do it all over again.

I chose my sorority because, they made me feel welcome college. I'm a transfer and they opened their arms to me.

Hope this helps you. Take care :-D