Hi Ashley! Welcome to Greek Chat!!
I am a UCF as a well as Chi Omega Alum. I just graduated last year. Joining a sorority was such a great experience for me. I definetly think you should give it a try.
At UCF, we have the following sororities: AD Pi, KD, ZTA, Tri Delta, DG, XO, Pi Phi, Theta, and AZD. This fall, Kappa is coming on to UCF. We were voted the #1 Greek System in the SouthEast and we're expanding really fast. Panhellenic will be mailing out applications for rush early in the summer, and letters of rec never hurt. It helps sets you apart since so many girls go through rush each year. Rush is hectic, you're constantly meeting people, and it lasts only a couple of days. Just be sure to be yourself and look for the group that you feel completely at home with.
As for the 'drinking and partying' - that's not all sorority life is all about. I know within my own organization, we pay a great deal of attention to all areas: scholarship, social, and sisterhood. I know in my personal experience, Chi O has helped me become a more well-rounded individual. I have also met my best friends through joining my sorority. I still live with two sisters, and am in constant contact with the other girls. To me, sorority life is more focused on the friendships. Sure, there will be those nights when you'll go out and party, but that's only one aspect of becoming Greek.
As for how much time a sorority takes up, really depends on you. I know there are mandatory events such as chapter that you go to every week. It's up to you how active you become. I personally was really active in my chapter bc I feel, "You get what you give." Since I was really active, I had tons of opportunities to meet the girls and make the memories. But while I was active, I was still able to maintain my grades, my job, and being friends with people that weren't Greek. It was such a great time and totally worth it to me.
UCF has great chapters with lots to offer. Good luck with your decision and feel free to PM me if you have any other questions.
Love-
XOALum
