My freshman year of college was a whirlwind of experiences. I chose to go out of state not knowing a single person at my school, learned to be fully independent on my own, and had to actually do laundry. Most importantly of all, I joined a sorority.
I have to say Greek life ruined me for good. In fact, it ruined me for the better. And if it had not, I would not be the person I am today.
Greek life ruined me because I see at least 15 people a day that I know on campus.
From knowing about 5 people my freshmen year to now knowing more than I can count, it’s nice seeing so many friendly faces from not just those involved in Greek life, but those in other organizations, societies, etc.
Greek life ruined me because I have to pay a certain amount per semester.
Yes, I pay a certain amount per semester; yes you may think I “pay” for my friends. But you know what? I wouldn’t change it for the world. The money that comes out of not only my pocket, but my fellow sister’s pockets, go toward our sorority. Without having dues, we wouldn’t be able to function as chapter, let alone an actual, nationally recognized sorority. Because I pay, my sorority is able to put on different fundraisers to benefit our philanthropy, a pink streak event for breast cancer, and other events for our chapter that make our sisterhood stronger and closer.
Greek life ruined me because now I have 60+ sisters.
When I joined my sorority, I gained an insane amount of sisters. I now have a new home, 60 closets to pick clothes from, and someone always there to listen and join in on an ice cream binge to counter a bad day. But, most importantly, these new sisters are my biggest support system. If I ever need anything, I know my sisters are always a text or phone call away.
Greek life ruined me because now I am now too involved.
Before joining my sorority in the spring of freshman year, I was not involved in a single thing. However, once I joined, I saw how each sister was either involved within the sorority, or through outside organizations. Some overachievers managed to handle leadership positions in both. I saw how each one of my sisters took on outside memberships in student government, participated in weekly community service, had internships, were active in clubs, and even part-time jobs all while balancing a challenging academic career. They have made me want to be just as successful and have full on inspired me to be the best me.
Greek life ruined me because I have the big sister I never had.
To those who personally know me, my big and I are inseparable. She is my best friend and sister. She is the one I go to for literally everything, and I mean everything. I can rely on her for advice, clothes, pouring my heart out, stuffing our faces with mac and cheese, and the like. We were even both lucky enough to spend a semester abroad together this past spring and had the time of our lives.
Joining a sorority has made my college experience better than I could have ever imagined. I have gained an incredible support system, made tons of memories, and formed friendships that will last a lifetime. I am more confident, more involved, and it has ultimately made me a better individual. So yes, Greek life did ruin me for good, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Featured image via “SDSU Sorority Girls in slutty Halloween costumes” by San Diego Shooter / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
LOVE LOVE LOVE hearing the experience of another fellow Gamma Phi girl!! I’m from Ohio University and we are in the process of colonizing a new Gamma Phi chapter, and I’m loving every minute of it. Your article got me pumped to start meeting more of my new sisters and getting more involved in the Greek community 🙂
I 100% agree with your article. I am also a member of greek life at my university and I would not change my experience for the world. My chapter has made me a better person and I have learned so much about myself in the short amount of time that I have been in the chapter.