[violetpretty]

If I had to join any other NPC on my campus, it would be Delta Gamma, Alpha Delta Pi, or Zeta Tau Alpha, since those were the other chapters where I was invited to pref, and reflecting back, I would have been happy in any of them. But that's not the question...

I've actually reflected on this before, and it really made me appreciate my sorority as a National organization and how I feel I found a great fit on both levels instead of just my chapter (which I love dearly). Sometimes I wonder, if I had gone to XYZ University, what chapter would I have joined? I think most NPC women could say that they could be a member of most/all of the 26 NPCs if they had attended a different school (Not dual memberships, just the "What if I joined at this school?") With an imaginary school with every NPC but Sigma Kappa, and local "fit" equal, I would probably pick one of these:

Alpha Chi Omega: I really like the symphony, their background in music, their dedication to the arts, and (in more shallow things) they have one of the prettiest badges in the NPC. They appealed to me during recruitment because I liked that their philanthropy (prevention of domestic violence) was something that helps women, which I think is appropriate for a women's organization. (Not that other philanthropies aren't relevant to women specifically, many of them are, this one just speaks to me.) I also like their tagline: Real. Strong. Women. The chapter at Maryland is particularly well-rounded, high-achieving and diverse. I met an AChiO in one of my classes first semester along with a SigKap and 2 Zetas, and it was their friendliness/laid back/genuine attitude that strongly influenced me to go through recruitment.

Kappa Alpha Theta: What really stands out about Theta to me is that the circumstances of their founding are so similar to Sigma Kappa's. Their founders were first women at Indiana Asbury, and came together to support each other when they were ridiculed by teachers, classmates, and even other women who went to finishing school. I love how Bettie Locke Hamilton demanded equal rights as a woman! I feel like today, they are really connected to their values, at least the Thetas I know IRL. The chapter at Maryland wasn't a fit for me, but they are so strong nationally; it seems like there is a Theta chapter at nearly every prestigious university. Being a Pittsburgh sports fan, I really would have bled black and gold if I were a Theta. And of course, I love their badge!

Kappa Delta: This is another sorority that I view as a progressive women's organization that encourages women to reach their full potential. I particularly like their work with the girl scouts, because it is important to serve as good role models for young girls. I also like the Stand Up, Stand Out! program (I know most NPCs sponsor it, but KD and ZTA organize it at my school) and their support for the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty. They also celebrate National Women's Friendship Day, reminding us what our organizations are all about. They also have a very active alumnae chapter in DC and seem to have very active alumnae across the country. The chapter at my school wasn't really a fit for me, but they have a strong tradition, hands down the most beautiful chapter house at Maryland inside and out, and some of the most dedicated alumnae at Maryland. I know several Maryland KD alumnae who are 70+ and still go to alumnae events and keep in touch with their sisters! Plus, I just love green!

Pi Beta Phi: Pi Phi had closed well before I attended Maryland, so I don't actually have personal experience with a Pi Phi chapter, and I don't know any Pi Phis IRL (actually I found out a friend from middle school joined Pi Phi but I haven't talked to her since then). I like them on an international level though (and the fact that they are international). I like their philanthropy promotes literacy, and I like "cultivating sincere friendship" (is it the official motto, unofficial, or a mission statement?). I think that's what all GLOs strive (or should strive) to do, and Pi Phi put it very aptly. Their colors are pretty (maybe I like them because they are similar to Sigma Kappa's?) and so is their badge. I especially like the one with alternating garnets and aquamarines!

Also pretty high up on my list in no particular order are Delta Delta Delta, Zeta Tau Alpha, Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Omicron Pi, Delta Gamma, Gamma Phi Beta. I admire so many groups, but I had to whittle it down!