[LAblondeGPhi]

Firstly: our chapter, our advisor, etc.

Now, on to the work:
-Talk to your advisor. She may not be the most helpful person in the long run (if what you say is true about her), but if there are serious issues that could yank your charter, then she's the person you go to. You have to have a little trust that when issues this important are presentented, she will take them seriously

-Start being the change you wish to see. Cliche? Sure. But true. If academics are important to you, then tell the chapter that you'll be holding a regular study group and invite people to come. Have women (or the chapter) pitch in a few dollars for snacks and coffee. Help arrange tutors or study sessions for your sisters who are struggling in certain classes. This doesn't mean that you have to do all the work, but a little work could go a long way.

-Bond with your sisters as best you can. If you're going to change the chapter for the better, you need a strong base of friendship.

-Stay positive. No bad-mouthing the chapter or its leaders. Say that you want to do something - THEN FOLLOW UP. If you say that you want to implement all of these ideas, and none of them get done, then people won't take you or your change seriously. Start with one or two "I would really love to do this... Does anyone want to help me?" ideas.

-If you have some ideas/projects for change, and they don't work out, keep working on other things. You don't want to get so caught up in one "brilliant" idea that the rest of the chapter doesn't like, and keep pushing for it. You'll just start beating the same dead horse into the ground. If no one wants to come to your study group - don't hound them over it (until you become Scholarship Chair or something, then you can).


-GET ALLIES! Find some women in the chapter whom you trust and who have the same vision as you! That is the most powerful thing you can do. They will support you when you burn out. They will comfort you when you're down. They will give you clout and a louder voice for change.

Good luck!