2005 SEC Recruitment Discussion

[AXiDTrish]

Hi All.....I wrote her a little note....obviously not telling my affiliation. I wanted an honest response and I'm not one to slam anyone for writing an article....allows for too much negative PR in the end.....

Here's what I wrote
Dear Miss Wylie,

I felt compelled to write you to say I appreciated your article "One Week In The Life Of A Sorority Screw-Up." As a sorority Greek alumna, though not from University of Tennessee or in a Greek system so large, I am able to relate to this article on many levels. I fully agree with the quote from the Alpha Chi Omega alumna who stated that what you see during recruitment isn't necessarily reality. For some chapters more than others it can be a show. I also was impressed that you seeked input from a social psychology professor and how his assessment didn't positively or negatively misconstrue Greek involvement. I have read many, many articles written to smear the Greek community and though I did not like certain aspects of your article, there was truth and responsible journalism throughout it. I applaud that.

I do feel, at the end of your article, that you may have overlooked one vital piece. How did the Alpha Xi Delta chapter feel when you did not go to their suite? As a collegiate there were years when a potential new member did not show up for bid day festivities for whatever reason. It broke the heart of chapter members because they look forward to new women joining their chapter and what they can bring. Knowing you would not take a bid if offered one...how many hearts did you break? Had circumstances been different, I would have loved to find out how your talents, specifically writing and the ability to see a different perspective of sorority involvement, could have benefitted this Alpha Xi Delta chapter.

Thank you for your time,

Here was her RESPONSE and it was quite interesting!
Thanks so much for your feedback. It was a tough story to write, because I had to identify and break through so many of my own prejudices in order to see the situation more clearly. Sorority sisters, contrary to what some people would have you believe, have emotions and sensitivities and depth. It broke my own heart to not go up to the Alpha Xi Delta suite at the end. Here were a group of young women who were open minded enough to see me for beyond the appearance I conveyed, and I in the end I was the one being fake, taking advantage of their kindness. In short, I learned a lot. I hope readers do, too.
Best, Leslie

*edited 'cause I can't spell!