JUNIOR Rush at University of Southern California Fall 2013

[scgirl92]

Hi all!
I am going to be a junior in the fall and plan to rush at USC. I didn't rush before because I am first-generation college student and had very little information about the greek system at USC and in general; I did get a pamphlet about rush in the mail, but I didn't feel like it was enough to gain true insight about greek life. Since I arrived on campus I have done lots of volunteerism, gotten leadership in orgs, got a job, and am doing well in my classes. I LOVE being at USC, but I've got to admit that I've had an underlying feeling that something is 'missing'. I am really looking to be a part of a sisterhood and getting involved in something more socially-oriented (everything I do right now is service-related...I love it, but I'd like some variety).

I initially thought I would go into rush with my best foot forward, be myself, and find a house that was perfect for me! However, after doing some research and talking to people (including the VP of rush recruitment) I found that the whole process is more difficult than I had anticipated. As of now, the houses I see myself in are what people would refer to as "top" or "upper-middle tier" houses. I hate the labels, but I guess they're there because those houses are harder to get into. There are two other ones I think I might like that are not as hard to get into, but one is a newer sorority that has a more offbeat, laid-back vibe. I think that's really cool! But I'm not sure if that's a right fit for me. However, I want to give ALL the houses a chance because I know there are amazing girls in all of them. Lastly, there is a new house, Alpha Gamma Delta, that is colonizing in the fall that I am interested in. The VP of recruitment is getting me in touch with their recruitment team so I am awaiting more info about them. I am open to anything, but I am not interested in co-ed greek chapters. I'm really just trying to make the most out of my college experience, so I want to do everything I can to find a house that is right for me. From my research I've found that I need to do the following things to help put me in the best position for rush:

1. Continue to get good grades and stay involved on campus
2. Talk to more girls in houses to hear their positon on taking junior pledges (from my understanding most houses will only take junior transfers or those with connections)
3. Get letters of recommendations

If you guys have additional advice about rushing at USC as a junior, please let me know. I understand there are other threads similar to mine, and I have read them, but I still wanted some advice that is specific to my situation.

Thank you in advance, and I hope everyone has a happy holiday!