[violetpretty]

I think membership in a sorority gives you what you are looking for. I had a bad first semester (my school does formal recruitment in the spring) and was looking for close friends. I was skeptical because I didn't drink when I was a first-year student (and still don't) , and I found a chapter that accepted me for that (and still does). Conversely, if you are looking for a bunch of girls to get wasted with, I'm sure you can find that too. It depends on who your closest friends are in the chapter and what you decide to participate in.

As for the money issue, getting a job over winter break would be a good way to put a dent in those first semester dues. It really depends how against it your parents are. It sounds like they're only skeptical/uneasy rather than "absolutely not" about it. Showing your parents that you are mature and responsible (ie by getting a job and by getting the best grades you can this semester) will show them that you are serious about sorority membership.

Good luck and keep us posted with whatever you decide!