[TriDeltaSallie]

Rosiegirl,

You've received some good advice, but I also wanted to chime in since I am a non-drinker as well and was all through college. I would agree that some of the women are probably looking for something else to talk about after non-stop recruitment topics, it will settle down after the first few weeks, and it is very possible to make friends and do well in a sorority and Greek life even if you are a non-drinker.

I agree that simply being upfront and casual about it is the best way. Once people knew it just wasn't for me, they rarely brought it up again. They just knew I didn't drink. When I went out or went to parties, I always held a Coke or Pepsi and no one ever bothered me to get me something to drink.

The only time I ever had a problem was when I was chapter president and a few women were "embarrassed" that their president didn't drink. It had more to do with them than me. The vast majority of my sisters knew I was highly committed to Tri Delta and the chapter so they could have cared less if I drank or not.

I would definitely stick it out and give it time. Get to know other women, spend lots of time hanging out at the house, and keep a positive attitude. Being a non-drinker does not have to be a hindrance at all.

If at the end of your new member period you find you have made a real effort and find that things are just completely contrary to what you expected, then you will have to make a difficult decision regarding whether or not to go through initiation. But I would be willing to guess that won't be the case.

Best wishes,
Sallie