Hi, everyone.
I hope I do not offend anyone. I have a serious question. Please bear with me- it is a long story.
I am a freshman at a big state university. My mother and sister are both Greek and went to schools with big emphasis on greek life.
I went through recruitment in the fall. I really didn't fit in with any of the groups. I will admit that I did have a favorite (my mother's sorority) which is a top chapter here and I was dropped by it. I went through until pref and only recieved one invitation, to a group that is pretty popular but just not for me. I attended pref and did not sign my bid card.
I contacted the Greek Life Office about COB and found three groups doing it. All are members of PHC but one is not a member of the NPC.
I attended several events for all three, and fell in love with the non-NPC. (They are a part of a national organization however. They are not a local.). I loved the girls and they have such a strong sisterhood! I love what the Sorority stands for and their programming. I spent about one hour on their website learning all I could about this sorority.
I was so excited when they offered me a bid! I called my mother and sister right away. My mother was very excited for me. (She is driving up this weekend to take me shopping for a dress for initiation.
)
My sister, on the other hand, told me to turn it down. She said by joining a non-NPC, I'm throwing away all the opportunities a sorority should provide. She said it was a stupid choice and I'd regret it. Her sorority is not here, so I do not believe she is biased in that manner.
The only thing I can see I am missing out on is living in a house, which isn't the end of the world for me. I would like to live in a sorority house, but it is not the deciding factor for me. In fact, I really wanted to be an RA so this may be a great opportunity for me!
They even have a strong alumnae program and the area alumnae chapter is very active and helped out at one of the COB events I attended.
Is my sister right? Should I turn down the bid because they are not part of the NPC?
Right now, my instinct is to accept the bid, because I really adore this group, both on a locally and international level. However, I don't want to be regretting my choice because I missed what my sister is talking about.
Any advice would be helpful. I have a bit to accept the bid, but I don't want to keep them waiting because I feel like that is rude and I don't want to hurt their feelings, especially because I really like them!!!
Thank you in advance for your advice.