AI in School

[33girl]

Originally posted by blueangel
<<True that, but for most of the orgs that have rules against alumnae/collegiate interactions (especially with respect to chapter events), it has more to do with liability and risk management issues, than an age hangup. >>


I think you misunderstood my post. I'm encouraging her to go through rush. I agree that it would be quite awkward for her to try to "fit in" with "the house" as an AI... but simply because those are two different entities.

I also disagree about the age and maturity level of a 27 year old vs a 17 year old. That is a big assumption. I have more faith in most 17 year olds. Being in a GLO is all about sisterhood and brotherhood. It's about overcoming differences to become "one in the bond."

It sounds to me as if she's seeking the "collegiate Greek experience". This is something totally different from AI.

I think some women seek AI because they're trying to recapture their college days. Then, when they're finally initiated, they find that AI is not what they expected. That is not to say being AI isn't special.. it is! But, it's DIFFERENT!

I was a pledge in college, and I can tell you that AI is nothing like what it was in school. If she can get the college Greek experience, I say, more power to ya! Go for it! If she doesn't at least try, I'm afraid she'll kick herself and always wonder, "What if...?"

I think it also would be good for her to go through rush... even if she decides not to accept a bid, or if one is not offered to her. I have fond memories of rush, and I think that's something not to be missed. I also found my rush experience very helpful when I assisted the local college chapter this year during pref night. It certainly would be helpful if she eventually accepts a position as rush adviser or chapter adviser when she's an alumna.

It's frustrating for me to constantly see how some posters assume someone can always go AI... as if it's easy to do. And... many imply it's some sort of consolation prize. I will tell you from personal experience that going through the AI process is extremely difficult and emotionally grueling.

In my case, I did not go into AI cold. I had already received a bid from ZTA back in college at an SEC school, was a pledge just about to be initiated, but never was because I transferred to a school that didn't have a Zeta chapter.

And, even though I had these strong ties, once I knew it was possible to be initiated, the process took three very long years. Three years filled with extreme highs and lows. I can imagine how difficult it is for those women who go through the AI process with no GLO ties in their past.

So, she has the opportunity to be a part of the collegiate GLO experience-- I say... DO IT!

I agree with this whole post.

And blueangel - THIS kind of thing is what people are talking about in the other thread.