Hi! I'm an alumnae and I was in a similar situation - the chapters at my school didn't have a huge reputation for partying, but there were a fair number of women who did like to party on the weekends. Between not really becoming close friends with anyone my first semester + I didn't drink at all for personal reasons + I had zero interest in meeting fraternity men, I felt a little lonely initially.
The good news? First off, I'd bet you're not the only one who feels this way. Recruitment is not only full of tent talk, but it's a tiny sample of a larger group of people. (I don't know how large your chapter is or how many women you met prior to Bid Day, but unless it's tiny, you've probably not met the whole chapter.) Generalizations happen. Don't worry about reputation right now - get out there and meet these women and make your own opinion!
Bonus: the women you went through recruitment with constitute an entirely new group to this chapter, yourself included. Though it's probably a little overwhelming to think of, you and your fellow NMs are the ones who will create the feel of the chapter over the next year or two - sisters will graduate, move, and all sorts of things will change. Who knows what can happen in that time?
As for meeting your sisters, both NMs and actives:
- I went to study sessions in the library, especially with sisters who were in the same classes with me. That was a wonderful way to get to know a HUGE variety of sisters.
- We had NM class dinners where everyone could chat and get to know each other. (Don't be afraid to suggest it during a NM meeting, either! You could start a cool tradition of weekly or monthly dinners in your chapter.)
- You'll have sisterhood retreats and icebreakers where you can bond.
- You'll get a Big Sister - not just through the Big/Little night, but you may find a senior you admire and talk with a lot as well. I was lucky enough to have an awesome Big who introduced me to all of her junior and senior friends. (And I still keep in touch with them, 2+ years after my graduation!)
- Eventually, you'll have class events where you can just hang out and relax every once in a while. One of my absolute favorite memories was a potluck/cookout senior year at a sister's apartment. We played games, watched a movie, and had a blast. Every single woman showed up and found something to enjoy - and my class was pretty diverse!
Don't be scared - right now, everyone's trying to get to know each other! It's not as awkward as it feels to ask someone if they want to study or grab a meal together. I hope that helps and that you have a wonderful NM experience!
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