Where has the summer gone? It’ll be syllabus week before we know it. Before we get back to the grind of papers, assignments, and studying, let’s focus on something fun and exciting: recruitment! If you’re not yet in a sorority and you’re thinking about joining one, there are a few important things to remember when going through the recruitment process. The ultimate goal is to be invited to be a member of the sorority you fall head over heals for, also known as a bid. When you walk into your first sorority of the day, keep these tips in mind to help you stand out in order to get that chance of a lifetime.
First things first- Breathe. Why are you so nervous? Remember: you CHOSE to go through this process, and you could just as easily choose to drop out if you don’t like it. You’re just getting people to see who you really are, so have fun with it! Most importantly, be yourself. This process is all about expressing your individuality, and whether that’s through your wardrobe, accessories or attitude, make sure who you are as a person shines through. It is the key to getting yourself noticed.
Courtesy of Google Images.
Clear your head- Go into this process with an open mind. Unfortunately, sororities sometimes have negative connotations and rumors that are started by people that have biased opinions. Maybe one sorority isn’t what you thought it was going to be, or maybe you liked another one that you thought you weren’t going to. If you go into the process thinking, “I want this sorority,” you may sabotage your chances of getting a bid from the chapter that you really fit in well with. Furthermore, feel free to ask questions! If you have heard rumors, face the uncertainties head on. These women have been in your shoes before. A sisterhood isn’t just a 4 year commitment, it is a bond for a lifetime. You want to make sure that you join one that represents your values.
Have a positive attitude- Nobody likes to have a conversation with a Negative Nancy. Sisters want to give bids to women who bring something positive to their chapter, not to someone who is going to bring morale down.
SMILE!- This goes hand in hand with having a positive attitude. Smiling is contagious, and when a sister sees you smiling, they will smile as well and will remember how great you were! There are hundreds of girls vying for the same sport as you, and it’s the little things in this process that help you stand out as an individual. Smiling will look like you are enjoying yourself and that is what the chapter is aiming for!
DON’T talk about sorority women you know- It is okay to mention that you know someone who is in a sorority, but if you’re constantly talking about how great the sister you know is, it may sound like you’re sucking up or being fake. It also may make the sister you’re talking to feel like you just want a bid from her sorority because your friend is in it. On the other hand, If you are related to an alumni or active member of that chapter/sorority, feel free to mention that. You just want to make sure people know that you want to be there for the right reasons.
Courtesy of Google Images.
DO talk about how awesome you are- Like I said before, sisters want women that have something to bring to their chapter table. Talk about your extracurricular activities, your amazing academics, and things you are passionate about. The more they know about you, the better of a sense they will have about how fabulous of a person you are.
Dress Appropriately- This is one of the most important aspects of recruitment. By all means, do not wear something you would wear to the bar or a party. Business casual attire is a safe bet. It shows that you’re serious about rushing. You don’t need to wear designer clothing: it’s not about the brand. Keep in mind not to dress like you’re trying too hard. Women should wear something like represents themselves. Just show that you’re ready to get serious, able to help and make a difference, and that you’re in this process for all the right reasons.
Ask questions- During the first few days of the recruitment process, you will be asked a million questions about yourself. As you move from sorority to sorority you will get some repeats: don’t get frustrated or stressed out! One thing I tend to love when talking to Potential New Members, or PNM’s, is when they ask me something about myself. It’s not that I want to talk about myself, but it’s nice to know that someone cares, and that will definitely help you be remembered.
Be Yourself!- This is the most important tip. Panhellenic refers to the council that encourages communication and interaction between different sororities. Most women in the Panhellenic system believe that the recruitment process really works. You will end up where you belong based on who you are as an individual. If you’re catering to what you think they’re looking for A) you’re probably wrong, and B) you won’t be happy where you are in the long run because you’re not being yourself. Have fun with it. It will be an experience you will never forget!
My sisters and I on bid day 2011!
For more recruitment fun and tips, check out what to expect when going through formal recruitment, why sorority leadership matters, and how to be part of a Greek organization while having a non-Greek boyfriend!
Allison Cohen is a Sorority and Lifestyle Writer. She is a member of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, a lover of hiking, running, and traveling, and is obsessed with her weenie dog, Maverick.
