Recruitment Help

[LAblondeGPhi]

I assume that if they do COB next semester, then the new sisters will be doing membership selection, whereas these founding members were probably chosen by alumni. This could change some factors, and you'll have to keep in mind that now the chapter is real entity with a personality all its own, whereas before it was the promise of that. There will be subtle changes to both how you assess the chapter, and what the chapter is looking for in membership: they will likely look more heavily at personality fit with the existing members, and may be looking for specific things they have found they're now weak in (leadership, sophomores, bakers, dancers, whatever - it can be random).

You *might* be able to have a conversation with a member of their advisory/leadership consultant team as to what COB options will take place next semester and see if they have any particular advice for you. She won't tell you why you didn't get a bid, but sometimes an alumna will have some nice perspectives on how you're presenting yourself in general.

Also keep in mind that there are fixable reasons why they may not have invited you into membership, and unfixable reasons. Fixable include a short-term GPA issue or missing a mandatory meeting/paperwork/whatever. Very occasionally, this category also includes not having shown enough interest/dedication/personality/leadership potential that you otherwise do possess.

Unfixable concerns are those that can't be addressed in the time frame you have (the next semester or two). A really low GPA, a poor reputation for whatever reason, or a cultural fit issue - meaning they just couldn't see you meshing with the chapter on the basis of personality.

If you ask for feedback, you have to be willing to take constructive criticism and use it constructively. You also may need to read between the lines - many people feel uncomfortable giving any kind of bad news or negative feedback, no matter how benign.

Just do your best to use all the information you have at your disposal to make yourself a better student, young woman, and candidate for membership next semester. Even if you don't get a bid, you will have spent your time in the valuable pursuit of self improvement.

Good luck!