Not Just a College Thing
I am writing this in response to the several inquiries from interested individuals about pledging a fraternity or sorority. Because I am in a sorority, I will gear my comments towards the young ladies.
In the Spring of 1993, I pledged Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. with five other young ladies. Because our pledge process is very similar to that of the BGLO's, we were mocked by members of the IFC for wearing uniforms, walking in line, cutting corners, publicly greeting our Hermanas (Sorors) and memebers of LGLO's and BGLO's. This was mild in comparison to the racial slurs, threats and insults we had to endure from these same members of the IFC. We understood that for some, this was the first time they had seen this type of pledge process. Therefore, we "sucked it up" and continued with our process.
Each day our Hermanas stated that pledging was the easy part, that once we "crossed over" the real work would begin. "Yeah right," we thought. "What could be HARDER than pledging!?!" We couldn't wait to wear "our" letters, party walk (stroll), hold up "our" sign, and do "our" call. After 2 1/2 months that day finally came. We made it! And you know what? Pledging WAS the easy part.
After we crossed, we were no longer seen as individuals on campus. We were Sigma Lambda's. Just as we had been one UNIFIED line we were one UNIFIED body. We had to be above and beyond reproach because we were representing SLU on and off campus, 24/7.
Most of our free time was spent meeting our sorority goals and ideals. In addition, we committed ourselves to hours of community service, on campus workshops, fundraisers, and supporting other LGLO's, BGLO's and even IFC members with their activities on and off campus.
After graduation, you may think that all this hard work is over. But in reality, a new chapter (no pun intended) is beginning. I cannot stress enough that being in a sorority is not just a college thing. It is a life-time committment. As an "old head" you still have responsibilities to your organization. And most importantly, to continue building everlasting bonds with old and NEW Hermanas/Sorors.
Despite career goals and family responsibilities, a dedicated Hermana/Soror will continue to play an active role in her organization. Whether big or small, it all counts and it is ALWAYS appreciated.
If you are only interested in the popularity that comes with being in a sorority...don't pledge. If you are only interested in wearing letters, strolling, stepping, and doing the call...don't pledge. If you are not interested in creating life long bonds...don't pledge. SISTERHOOD should never be taken lightly.
Realistically, anyone can be a pledge. It takes hard work and dedication to be an Hermana/Soror.
Good luck!
Serena (Serene) #2
*I am solely speaking based on my experience as an LGLO member and basic knowledge of the BGLO system. Other greek organizations may differ!
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It has really helped me decide whether to rush. I really had no idea what to expect once I joined a sorority. I was worried that it would just be about wearing letters and partying. That really wasn't what I was looking for. 
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