Go with the one that you like. But here are some things I would think about
:
-Think about who is going to fulfill your sisterhood needs. Who do you feel closer to?
-You mentioned social aspects. While reputation is NOT everything and varies from campus to campus and can change VERY quickly, look at all of the events and activities both groups participate in, how socially active are they?
-Price is also a concern apparently, list the pros and cons of the price compared to social activities, housing, food planning, etc. Which will provide more "bang for your buck"?
-Also, if there are financial hardships that may occur in the future, would you still be able to manage? While some groups allow those with hardships to go inactive, take early alumnae status, whatever program they offer, etc. Some don't have provisions for this and their rules may require you to sign away your membership. Find this out (but not in a way that makes it seem as if you will be a problem). Sisterhood is fine and dandy, but when stuff like this happens it is not usually sunshine and rainbows.
-Look at the groups and see what can you offer them! So maybe they aren't the "best" socially, but perhaps you have a knack for planning parties and would make a great social chair, or maybe they're not so tight knit, but you'd make a great sisterhood chair. Maybe you have tons of friends in different clubs and get the chapter more involved on campus.
-Can you see yourself strongly supporting the chapter through your remaining years? Or will you be looking to dash out big time on your senior year? Obviously maybe this is something you can't feel now, but it never hurts to think about it.
-Do they have a lot of members involved in campus activities so you can get a leg up? Or does this not matter to you because you are a self-starter and don't mind trailblazing? (I hope you are!
) But if you're not then what would you truly prefer for yourself? (This was something I heard a lot as a Panhellenic Council member during recruitment from PNMs!)
-You say you are from out of state-find out (google or yahoo! is super easy to use) how active these groups (collegiate and alumnae) are back in your home state, especially if you may end up transferring back to finish school or plan on moving back when you've graduated. If you JUST KNOW what you're doing for grad school, check out the alumnae activities for that area(s) as well.
-Find out if there may be any distant relatives, close past teachers, etc. who are involved with these chapters, maybe they can add a more personal perspective of their experience.
I hope I've given you some positive food for thought. I hope that your sorority dreams come true! Good luck!