Quote:
Originally Posted by adpiucf
ETA: I do want to tell you that every chapter, even the ones at and over total, have problems and internal issues. I know it seems hard to believe, but it is very true. It's also very confusing when you're new to understand the inner workings of an organization or to see why things are done a certain way, esp. if it appears that they may not be contributing to the chapter's long-term success. The most important lesson I've learned in being a sorority member is this: When I enter a new group, I observe first, learn the ways and means of the organization, ask questions and then seek to recommend changes once I have a better understanding of the way things work and the culture of the group. I encourage you to go about this the same way. When you are the newbie and you arrive intending to change things without first getting acclimated to WHY things are done a certain way, things can backfire-- not b/c your ideas aren't good ones, but because people will be resistant to how they perceive someone with limited or no background into the group dynamics. You've had a year to watch and grow. This is the prime time to talk to your pres with your concerns and get involved!
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Thanks for saying this. It really makes sense. I think this might be the reason I didn't get a good response from the chapter when I tried to suggest changes last semester. Now that I have a better idea of who I'm working with, chapter reception is getting better. And now that I'm planning on running for office, I think things will be easier all the way around. I just hope I have the opporutnity to try to change things. (Meaning, I hope that the closed meeting doesn't end up becoming a chapter-closing meeting.)
Thanks again for all the responses. I'll keep you all posted.