How important are Recs/Legacy?

[Alison-Marie]

To be honest, I had never really thought about joining a sorority before this summer, because I had never actually met anyone who was in a sorority. I mean, I'd thought about it, but everyone around me (friends, family) thought it was crazy, so I sort of figured I wasn't the sorority type. But, after orientation, for a couple different reasons, I started re-thinking this and really looking into it. I've signed up for rush now, but I'm wondering if I have any chance at all.

My school is in the south, but I don't know if it's IN the south - competition-wise, I mean. It's in Florida, which usually isn't considered THE SOUTH, you know what I mean? So I'm not sure.

See, as far as I know, I don't really know any current sisters or Alumni to write me recs (although I don't think they're mandatory at my school) and nobody in my family has ever joined. I'm still looking, but I doubt I'll find them. So, should I expect to get turned away in the first few rounds?

I'm not going in "for letters" or anything - I'm going for friendship, sisterhood, and fun, if I decide to join. I don't know what makes a "cool" or "popular" sorority, and I really don't care one way or the other. I'm looking for girls that I like and want to hang with.

I'm a fairly attractive, fairly interesting girl with an excellent GPA, some community service, and a decent activities list. I consider myself a little shy, but most people think I'm fairly outgoing. I definitely don't have (and seriously doubt anybody would think I have) a bad rep.

Anyway, tell me the truth - or what you think the truth is, at least. Be brutal. I would rather go in with my eyes open. How likely is it that I'll be cut after the first round or so just because I don't have any connections?

Thanks,
Allie