I started college at University of Kentucky. I went through recruitment my first semester there and I felt like their recruitment process was more of a "circus" atmosphere which turned me off. So I quit the next day. I also had quite a few friends from my high school and hometown that also were going there as well so I didnt feel a huge need to join there from lack of knowing people. As my academic goals changed I also felt a need to change schools in order to pursue my new direction, thus EKU. I had some friends who were Theta's at EKU. They pleaded with me to rush and I told them i really didnt feel like sorority life was my thing, but if it would get them to shut up about it, i'll do it (with the intention of not pledging). Right away I felt at home with the Thetas. I loved 3 other chapters too so my decisions were difficult at first. As the week progressed however I knew more and more that Theta is where I belonged and decided that yes I would like to pledge them. As we all know there are no guarantees with recruitment outcomes so I kept hoping and praying things would turn out. Each time I was invited back to Theta i got so excited.
Finally, preference day came, and while i had a full schedule, and I did like the other chapter I went to, I knew I wouldnt be truly happy unless I was a Theta. I also knew that the other chapter really liked me and odds would be high of getting a bid from them, if i didnt get one from Theta. So in order to feel some control over that part of my destiny, I suicided my bid card to Theta (eventhough they tell you not to do that!). Things worked out to my favor, I pledged Theta, became quite happy, and my whole experience through the rest of my first undergraduate career was outstanding
I'm also enjoying the alumnae experience quite a lot as a permanent alumnae secretary to Hanover, being the corresponding secretary to my local alumnae chapter, and on the Facility Corp. Board to Uk's chapter, all in addition to attending alumnae events to both UK and EKU
A side note:
I think half of someone's experiences in Theta, as well as all organizations is in part to how much one puts into it. So if you are a Theta/Alumnae, or from another chapter and you are wondering about your experiences as to why they arent or havent been as outstanding as many of us here describe, ask yourself how much time and effort did you put into your time as an undergrad. Did you make it a point to meet and get to truly know as many sisters as possible? Did you go to or take part in as many opportunities as you could? Same for alumnae. Are you participating in your local chapter? Have you thought about starting a chapter? Being a chapter advisor? A volunteer? If you dont like how your group is currently being run or whatever get involved and see how you can go about changing it (odds are if you are unhappy with how the group is being run, you wont be the only one but it takes someone to speak up and take initiative otherwise nothing will change). Get involved!