Hi Orchid--
It can be very helpful if you have a recommendation, because the chapter can get to know who you are even before you show up for the first Rush party.
I can't blame you for wanting to ask around; it can be awkward. I do think it pays off, in the end, though.
Bama (being Southern) will look more favorably on a recommendation than a Midwestern school will. Recs are more "necessary" in the South than in any other region, for whatever reason.
Look into finding each sorority's rec chair in your area . . . you should be able to find these on each sorority's website. (Kappa Kappa Gamma can be found at
www.kappa.org)
Best of luck to you! I hope you find what you're looking for. The only advice I can offer you, is this: when you're at those beautiful houses, looking all spiffy in your best outfit, try to imagine whether or not you would feel comfortable in your pajamas--with the actives, in that house--because you really want to pledge the place that feels the most comfortable.
Panhellenically,
imsohappythatiama
------------------
Oh, Kappa Kappa Kappa Gamma,
I'm so happy that I am a
Kappa Kappa Kappa Gamma,
Nobody knows . . . how
happy I am!