[TSteven]

I don't feel that *looks* ("put together" what have you) are the primary criteria that Southern chapters use when they evaluate a potential new member. Just happens to be a more noticeable attribute.

My guess is that academics, leadership, integrity, friendship, personality etc. are at the forefront.

Yes, rush is competitive at many Southern schools. This is because there are so many excellent women going through rush with with a high GPA, extra curricular activities out the wazoo, community service that would make Mother Teresa blush, stellar recommendations, and legacies to boot. All the while there is a limited number of bids available. As such, *looks* may end up as the "tie breaker". But is not the reason a women is extended a bid. It is the whole "package".

And letting PNMs know "the whole picture" is not talking out of both sides of the mouth. Frankly, it is simply putting forth an accurate assessment of what to expect.