trying to participate...

[erica812]

I haven't spent much time here lately. I've been really busy with school, work, and family. Two years ago, I started volunteering on my Section staff, but after a few months, I was offered a job opportunity that would take up A LOT of time, so I stepped down rather quickly from the Section staff. I felt bad, but I resigned in a respectful way that didn't leave anyone hanging.

I still want to be a supportive alum. I just wrote a letter to send to my college chapter. Please let me know if you think this is an appropriate way to approach the chapter.

Dear Brothers of Alpha Phi Omega,

My name is _________. I pledged Alpha Phi Omega at ____ in the Spring of 1998. I served the chapter as VP Membership and Publicity Chair. I have many wonderful memories of APhiO dinners and the annual bowl-a-thon! I spent a very short time on the Section __ staff, but I made the decision to step down in order to take advantage of a job opportunity at the University of ___________. I am currently in my third year of Ph.D. studies at _____.

I am writing simply to congratulate you on keeping the _________ chapter strong and to offer my encouragement as you continue to pursue the ideals of Alpha Phi Omega. My favorite part of membership in APO was participating in the initiation of members coming up after me. The rituals reminded me that to be a Brother in our organization is to be part of something far bigger than oneself. Whether you realize it or not, you are part of a large, strong organization, and the fraternal ties do not die after college.

Although my time is limited as a graduate student and a new mom, I want to offer my assistance if you find yourself in need of an alumna. My areas of expertise are education, literacy, and writing. I also know a thing or two about being a grad student and the application process. I would be happy to speak with the chapter or advise Brothers in these areas. I can be reached by e-mail at _________or by phone at ___________.

In Friendship,


Erica ________