Well I was a transfer student living off campus. At first I was looking for a way to quickly find a group that could expand my social life options. At my first school, a friend of mine was a Delta Sigma Theta soror...but since that school was predominantly male (and the Black student population was also pretty small)...she often went to other schools to participate in Greek life events. That did not really appeal to me...but at my second school, it was a different story. Greek life was pretty popular on-campus.
However, the schools were not so different in that they both had a really small number of Black students percentage-wise. What I noticed among the Black Greek organizations is that they sort of all lumped together; which was needed and important in order to get things done. I was friends with a Zeta Phi Beta and found those women interesting...but in my limited exposure...it just was not something I could see myself comfortable in.
Through some of my own research, I found out about my sorority. Back then, it has only been in existence for a few years. But I was excited to see that other women had actually pulled together to found a totally new undertaking. I also was impressed that the sorority did not start in a metro area far away....and many of the founders were just like me; Black women who grew up and involved themselves in many activities that did not mainly focus on their cultural background. Again, I have only the
utmost respect for the Divine 9 NPHC groups -- it just wasn't my thing (and I'm sure they are not interested in women who are not totally on board with their mission and purpose).
The NPC groups looked interesting. But I wasn't interested in all in all of the costs and the aspect of living in a house. Yeah...again, not really my thing.
But I love NPC groups too...especially the ones at my alma-mater. They are really cool and supportive, you know?
The past 10 years have been great; given I had practically nothing to do with my sorority in the years right after my graduation. It was amazing to get back involved and see what type of women had joined our sisterhood in the meantime. I couldn't be more proud really
. Now instead of just "expanding my social options" I have a network of women all over the country I can just call up for help or for advice or just to say "hey". It's an awesome feeling really. Plus, I just love busting the "sorority girl" stereotypes too.
