A. Did you apply for membership during your college years?
Yes, once. I originally attended an HBCU where the chapter was on probation and later suspended. I transferred two years later b/c my department lost accreditation. The chapter at my new school had a line the second semester I was there and I submitted even though I didn't expect to make it due to the fact I had not been there very long. I just wanted to put myself out there because since the 8th grade my interest NEVER waivered. I still did a lot of service with the chapter and the community and focused on my academics. I became really close friends with chapter members who...six years later...were there for me EVERY step of the way...
B. While waiting for the chance to join, what did you do in the meantime?
I knew if and when it was my time, God would have me in place. I kept doing service on my own, focused on my career goals, and went to grad school. While in graduate school working on my master's, I ended up working with a young lady at the university who was a member of the local alumnae chapter and I participated and volunteered in a lot of the chapter's events while doing my service and working hard at school on my own. This connected me with a lot of young women in the chapter I would later be initiated along with my 14 other LS'
.
C. While others around you were becoming members, how did you stay focused on the mission of joining the sisterhood that you felt lead to pursue?
I was very happy for them...and two of my closest elementary school friends that crossed at my undergrad school was always positive and supportive of me as I was to them. When I did cross on 4/28/07...the love I got from them and that chapter (as well as my own) still makes me tear up now...
To ALL BGLO Sorority members, what advice would you give those who were not chosen this year for membership?
When it is your season, EVERYTHING will fall into place. So, just do your part to make sure you are ready (community service/gpa/etc.) because everyone does not get a second opportunity. As CT4 stated, sometimes a denial IS a delay. Don't be discouraged by a no and if a no makes you decide to try to join another organization then it wasn't for you anyway. True character shines in the midst of adversity...so what will you do?