[basket96]

Being a sophomore should not affect you at most schools. However, some schools are VERY competitive (esp. in the south). At the school where I am an adviser, at least half of potential new members are sophomores, juniors and even seniors.

Try to really get to know the ladies you are meeting. Ask them questions about themselves, their sorority, their philanthropic activities, etc. There are some great books on "great questions for getting to know people"... One of the most important aspects of being a good conversationalist is asking others questions about themselves. Be aware, that good sorority rushers will do the same for you, so plan in advance those topics you may want to discuss. This will help, especially if you get a little nervous. Try to avoid talking about boys and parties. This will be discouraged for the sorority members as well.

What types of activities interest you? Volunteering with school children? Raising money for certain philanthropies? Have you done any of this in the past?

You can be shy and still be a GREAT member. Remember, a good sorority has some chiefs and some indians. If everyone was a chief, then it would be difficult to get things done. Strong committee members (indians) are an integral part of sorority life. Additionally, many offices operate somewhat behind the scenes and are perfect for someone like you who is more on the quiet side.

I would also offer that you want to find the place where you really feel you fit in with the members. This may or may not be the "best" house on campus. I remember being dropped from the "best" house on my campus as a freshman. That house is no longer on campus, as they withered away a few years after I graduated. So, you never know what the future will bring. I ended up at the smallest house (they had just graduated more than 50% of their members), which overnight became the LARGEST house on campus due to their successful recruitment. They are still on campus, and the other one is not. To me the most important thing was being where I truly felt I fit in, not where I thought I "should" fit in.

What types of leadership experiences have you had? Do you want to pursue these types of activities during your college years? What types of leadership opportunities will membership in each particular sorority present? Some have leadership training events for members. What about networking with alumnae? (particularly beneficial for those internships and jobs after graduation).

You can also check out the national web sites for the sororities on your campus. Find out what their philanthropies are and what their mission statements state. Then you can ask specific questions and show an interest in the members you meet.

I hope this information is helpful. I hope you decide to go through recruitment and have a wonderful time! Try to meet as many people (both members and potential new members) as you can.


Finally, remember that the members are nervous too and excited to meet you! Try to open up so that they can get to know you and what makes you special!

Good luck!