International and 22yo - any hope?

[aussiesas]

well, unfortunately, even though I am acing all my exams and assignments at college, they do not have a grading system - on our reports it is simply "competent" or "not competent". I have got all competent's but this si unable to be transferred to a GPA score.

I am currently still in Australia, I will be moving to the states in April so I will have a couple of months to get recs - but how do I get recs in a country where I don't know anyone and haven't studied in before?

[Fleur de Lis]

Originally Posted by aussiesas

I am currently still in Australia, I will be moving to the states in April so I will have a couple of months to get recs - but how do I get recs in a country where I don't know anyone and haven't studied in before?

Meet people like you normally do, and when you are comfortable, ask them "were you in a sorority or do you know anyone who was?" I made a few random phone calls when I was looking for recs and everyone was very helpful. Just be prepared to ask questions like "what did you like about being a member?" or "what do you wish you had known before recruitment?" Then at the end of your conversation, ask if they would be willing to write you a rec. (FYI, only ask this if their sorority has a chapter at your campus!) You can also contact the Alumnae Panhellenic in your city and see if they have any resources for you.

Be ready to answer why your gpa is low and don't hide from it. Some chapters can offer grade exceptions if they are head over heels about you. If grades become an issue, I believe some UNT sororities hold an informal Spring recruitment. Hopefully by then you would have a good fall gpa to report. Good luck!

[KSUViolet06]

Originally Posted by Fleur de Lis

Some chapters can offer grade exceptions if they are head over heels about you.

A note about grade exceptions, they are very rare. So it's not something I would bank on.

[bejazd]

Maybe it would it be most helpful to contact the Greek Life advisor at UNT first and explain your situation. He/she might have the best advice for what kind of questions the chapters there might have about considering an International student for potential membership. In addition to the grades issue, they may also be concerned as to whether or not you understand and are ready to take on the financial and time obligations of membership.

Get some letters of recommendation together from people who know you very well (pastor, former coach, teacher, employer, etc.)

[Xylochick216]

I'd expect the fact that you're Australian to be a great conversation-starter. I can't speak about the grades, though.

Off topic, but hooray WA! I spent 6 months in Perth. I'm dying to move back there!