[LouisaMay]

I believe that the many success stories and rapidly growth threads have given posters a slanted view of what Alumnae Initiation is all about. This is not anyone's fault, but a quick glance at the AI board could make a new GC-er mistakenly believe that AI is something that you can "sign-up" for. (And I don't believe that I can say this about Breeza00 since I haven't even heard her story yet.)

Trust me, ladies and gentlemen. AI is hard. It is a real honor to be asked to join an organization beyond its usual parameters for membership. When you approach an organization about AI, you are basically saying, "I understand that your members are selected during their college years, but I believe that I could bring something special to your organization and that I would benefit from the bonds of membership. Could you please make an exception for me?" That takes guts! And it takes a lot of trust and faith in you and your sponsor for the organization to say "yes." The AI journey is VERY humbling!

I know that I look like a good candidate on paper. I've got a great academic record, good service experience, and a strong career path, but I also understand that in order for an organization to extend an invitation to me at this stage in my life, they must see me as an exceptional case, worthy of an out-of-the-ordinary procedure.

Even though AI is growing, it is still the exception...not the rule.

Sincerely,
LouisaMay
(a PNAM who has learned a lot in the last fourteen months)