UF Gamma Phi Beta
 

How does the whole colonization process work?

there are TONS of threads here about the pros/cons of joining a colony.

Colonies are not consolation prizes for women who abandoned their freshman year bid and were completely cut in their re-rushing attempt during their sophomore year.

Do a search in the recruitment forum.

Who said it'd be a consolation prize? Immature freshmen can grow up and attitudes change. Don't assume you know her.

I agree. I also want to note that the OP's original post appeared as though she already assumed she would get an invite to the colonization. Just because a new chapter is coming to campus, that does not mean they will pick you right up. In fact, asking the "pros" and "cons" in this situation when you have dropped out of your first sorority and then didn't get picked up by anyone the second time around is in really poor taste. Don't assume you will even be given a bid. At this point, the last thing you need to worry about are the "cons" of a colonization. You should simply be happy if anyone would consider taking you with dropping out and then no bid at a major SEC school.

In general terms:

The colonization team will hold a number of open events, and from there an invitation only recruitment process will begin, culminating in bids being distributed.

New colonies work with advisors and field consultants until it's determined that the chapter is stable and self-sustaining.

Also, most national HQs have some website or FB page where you can sign up to show interest in the colony. If you're interested in checking it out, there's no harm in registering to learn more.

Als463 is right that bids are never guaranteed and that no one should assume that they are getting a bid anywhere. From what I have personally seen, it's not easier to join a GLO through colonization. The national representatives are going to be looking for high-achieving students (good grades and involved on campus) and a good mix of personalities. If you're going to go through with it, you need to bring your A game.

If you recognize those things and think you would be happy at Gamma Phi Beta, then I think it would be worthwhile for you to try to pursue the colony recruitment. I wasn't a colony member, but some of my close friends were when I was an undergrad, and I saw how special that experience was for them. It's definitely hard work to form a new chapter from the ground up, but their experiences were rewarding in ways they didn't think of at the beginning of the process.

These might be some places to start reading:

http://sororitygirl101.com/2012/07/0...on-a-tutorial/

http://sororitygirl101.com/2012/07/0...is-it-for-you/

http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/sh...d.php?t=118074

Your best resource for any of your questions is going to be the extension team currently at the University. If you did not attend the drop-in event today, there is another opportunity tomorrow.

Check out all the details here:

https://www.gammaphibeta.org/members...ersity-florida

Be sure to scroll down for the calendar of events. The registration link is at the top, which you'll need to use to sign up for a personal interview. Social media links are also available.

The extension team will be able to answer any of your questions, and you won't know if you might be a good fit for the new chapter if you don't sign up and go through the process. Be honest with them and you'll have a better chance of being happy in the long-term, whether that be with or without a bid to the new colony. :)

Today is Bid Day!!
 

I've been following the process (since it's never occurred during my time at college) and can't wait to see their Bid Day pictures/results! It's so nice to see UF Panhellenic growing with two great chapters!

Congratulations on the new colony. The pictures are wonderful.

Great! I've seen nothing but great photos out of Gainesville the last few weeks.

I wonder what happened with the OP. Did she decide to try the colonization? Was it successful?