When I first started college, I had no idea what actual sorority life was like. I went to a community college for two years, and we didn't have a Greek life. The only thing I "knew" about Greek life was what our society told me. Luckily, I never thought it was truly like that, so as I transferred to CMU, I considered the possibility of going Greek. I had a good circle of friends already at Central, but I wanted to meet more people and to network.
As I signed up for Rush, I went with the attitude that if I didn't like it, I wouldn't join a sorority. I didn't want to join something just because everyone else was joining. I would only join if I felt that I could truly better myself and to get a great experience out of it.
I excitedly lurked at each sorority's website and information. I tried not to base my opinion on what I saw because I hadn't even gone through Rush yet. I didn't even know what these ladies were like!
As the first day of Rush started, I wasn't sure what to expect. I went to each house and I had an idea of what house I liked and which I didn't click with. I wanted to join a sorority that would be home for me and that would give me a positive experience. I wanted to better myself and I wanted to make sure that I would be a positive addition to my potential sorority. Some groups just didn't click with me. There was nothing wrong with them, but it just wasn't for me.
As the week went on, I found the sorority that I wanted to be a part of. I felt that I could truly be myself there. I had short red hair, tattoos and piercings. Some groups looked down on me for it, but this group welcomed my individuality. As I talked to the potential sisters I might get at this house, we joked about Harry Potter nerdiness and reading books. It was such a great feeling to experience a connection such as this.
At the end of the week, I was terrified that I wouldn't get a bid from the sorority I really wanted. The others were great, but this one was THE SORORITY I wanted to be in. I loved the ideals and what they stood for. On Jump Day, I was anxiously awaiting a bid, at least something. Finally, I received my bid. Sounds strange, but it was such a great joy to know that a group of women felt the same connection with me as I did them.
My few years in Greek Life went quickly. Sure, we had some good times and we had some bad times. However, overall, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. I was honestly surprised that I enjoyed Greek life as much as I did. I learned so much about myself and so much about others. I've always been a bit of a tom boy, so being surrounded by that much estrogen was new for me. I took a few positions in the sorority, so I took on more responsibility and how to network with others.
I love what Delta Phi Epsilon stands for. I'm so proud to be a part of a tradition that was started by five wonderful ladies. I volunteered more. I worked with philanthropy events. I try to live by the values of Delta Phi Epsilon every single day. I've always believed in holding myself to a higher standard, and this sorority has helped me with that.
I don't look down on people who aren't Greek. It works for some and not others. I'm completely okay with that. Luckily, it worked for me.
