Alright, this may be long and nonsensical, but I'll try to do my best...
Several (about 6) of my sisters and good friends are all seriously considering turning in their pins this semester, each for their own reasons, but what it basically comes down to is burn out. They're all seniors and I'm pretty sure all of them pledged during their freshman year. They all have held some sort of position in the house at one point, and while living in the house they were generally happy with the chapter. All have moved out of the house this year, and basically feel unattached to the chapter. A lot of our friends graduated in May and the rest are 5th year alumnae (myself included).
They don't see the point in paying dues (which are close to $1000 a semester for out of house sisters) just so they can graduate a DG. Some also have internships, student teaching, and other "real world prep" stuff and don't have the time to dedicate to the mandatory stuff we have, let alone the social events. I used to serve on honor board and our chapter has reduced dues and excused people from events in extreme cases, but I can't see the chapter excusing 6 women just so they can graduate as DGs.
Basically I want to know if you guys have any ideas of how I can talk them out of this. They're not close with anyone who serves on Honor Board now, so I can't really see HB being too persuasive in talking them out of it. I'd like them to stick it out for the chapter, of course, but mostly I'm upset about them turning their backs on such an amazing organization that has given them so much for the past 3 years. I'd like to see them at Founders Day in 40 years. Please also keep in mind that I'm not a very emotional or expressive person (although it seems quite easy for me to spill to strangers
).
I can see why they wouldn't want to pay so much money for something they can't participate in or don't want to participate in, but I'd like to give them my 2 cents in hopes that they'll change their mind.
Thanks, ITB
Lil' Hannah