I had a very negative opinion of fraternities and sororities
before I ever got to college and was exposed to them. When I pledged my GLO, I still wasn't a huge fan of them in general. I joined a professional arts organization the fall of my sophomore year,
Phi Beta. I got along really well the brothers & sisters (it is coed) and saw it as a great networking opportunity in the future, as well as a chance to do some service to the community while I was an undergrad.
It wasn't until I was in the chapter for almost a year before I really understood and appreciated
all of the benefits of greek life. And even now, I'm still learning. Not only do I have professional networking opportunities, but immediate friends across the country. I still have the opportunity to participate in community service. I'm still involved in arts-promoting events. I attendeded our National Convention over the summer & had the opportunity to meet a woman who graduated from my university & chapter in 1942. What an awesome experience.
I've also learned to respect other members of the greek community & learn from them as well. (In "real life" & on these boards
).
I have to say, my college experience was enhanced in
so many ways by becoming a part of Phi Beta. While I maintained and continue to maintain good friendships with people outside of my fraternity & outside of greek life in general from my university, I don't think my experience could have been as positive as it was
without my fraternity brothers & sisters.
------------------
SilverTurtle@greekchat.com
Phi Beta Fraternity
Phi chapter
[This message has been edited by SilverTurtle (edited September 14, 2000).]