Re-Rushing As A Sophomore...

[DubaiSis]

I think I'd start with a real conversation with your parents about you rushing. You've mentioned that you have been looking for a job to pay for part. What about the other part? I think I would get a solid commitment from your parents about what exactly they will pay and what exact part will be your commitment. Since you don't know exactly what your expenses will be, I'd probably get them to say they will pay X dollars toward your sorority commitment and you will need to cover the rest. Just because your parents have one huge financial burden off their shoulders doesn't mean they want to take on additional debt that they consider to be frivolous.

Second, regardless of lots of mean girl stereotypes, sorority women are nice. They will (sometimes unfortunately) say what will make you feel better and not what is the most beneficial to you. Just because 2 sorority women said you should rush doesn't mean that you will have any better chances with them in the future. Now, that doesn't mean you won't, but I wouldn't put any value in what they've told you.

Finally, you haven't mentioned informal rush. If you do have friends in the sororities, they might be able to let you know if they are having an informal rush in the spring. You've met all the sororities and you want to have a sisterhood. If any of the chapters have open spaces in the spring, I would take every effort to take advantage of that.

[Blue Skies]

All you can do is work on the things that you can work on. Financials are your biggest issue. Keep looking for a job.

Back in my day, if you applied for financial aid, an offer of on-campus employment was part of the package. Many on-campus jobs tended to pay better than normal and to be more interesting as well. You could also turn down part of the financial aid package while retaining other parts (i.e turn down loans, but keep the grants and on-campus employment.)

Another thought is to thoroughly research scholarships and apply for as many as you can. I would also have a talk with your mom and discuss with her the reasons why sorority membership is important to you. She may not realize that membership has lifetime benefits. I agree with an above poster that you should try to get a commitment out of your parents for the amount of money they will be willing to contribute toward your sorority membership.

Keep being friendly with the girls in your classes and in campus organizations. Always arrive at class early and chat up those girls who are sitting around you. It goes without saying that keeping your grades as high as possible should be a priority as well.

Good luck to you and let us know how it goes.