Many girls question Greek life. Is it for me? Will I fit in?
What is it like? The only way to find out these answers is to go through
recruitment yourself. In order for you to get the most out of your recruitment
experience, here are 5 tips to make you the best PNM (potential new member)
possible.
Do your Research
As a PNM it is important to do your own research. Check out each chapter’s national websites, social media, blogs or anything you can get your hands on. It is important to know what you’re getting yourself into. Educate yourself before you make a long-term commitment. Check out Ohio Northern University’s Greek Life page for more information about Alpha Xi Delta, Delta Zeta, Kappa Alpha Theta and Zeta Tau Alpha.
Relax and Be Yourself
I will be the first to admit that the recruitment process is
scary. No one wants to feel judged by 80+ girls. This why it is important to just relax and be yourself. Sisters
wants to get to know the real you! Don’t try to be someone you’re not. You are
looking for sisters, so if you feel uncomfortable at any time, that should be a
red flag that you don’t belong in that organization.
Keep your Options Open
Just because you’ve done your research doesn’t mean your decision is made. You may really like a sorority's values or philanthropy but after meeting some of the sisters, you may realize it wasn’t what you were expecting. That is OK and totally normal. Continue the recruitment process and give other sororities a fair chance. You never know what opportunities are waiting for you.
Do What is Best for You
Every round of recruitment, you will learn more about each sorority on campus. It is important as a PNM to make every decision for yourself. Don’t be influenced by family, friends, peers or alumni. It’s your decision! Just because all of your friends want to be apart of XYZ, doesn’t mean you have to
be. Choose the sorority where you feel the most comfortable.
Ask Questions
I can’t stress this enough! Joining Greek life is a huge commitment, so if you’re confused or curious about something, don’t be scared to ask. Sisters are there to help you and answer your questions. Not only is it good to have your questions answered, it is also impressive to current sisters. If you’re asking questions and engaging in conversation, it shows that you have done your research and thought about where you see yourself in Greek life.
If the recruitment process is over and you still don’t feel a connection with a sorority, do not pick one! Don’t feel pressured to make a decision just because everyone else is. Remember that Greek life isn’t for everyone. If you did find a home in Greek life, congratulations! Enjoy the time you have with your sisters and get as involved as possible. You won't regret it.
Do your Research
As a PNM it is important to do your own research. Check out each chapter’s national websites, social media, blogs or anything you can get your hands on. It is important to know what you’re getting yourself into. Educate yourself before you make a long-term commitment. Check out Ohio Northern University’s Greek Life page for more information about Alpha Xi Delta, Delta Zeta, Kappa Alpha Theta and Zeta Tau Alpha.
Relax and Be Yourself
Keep your Options Open
Just because you’ve done your research doesn’t mean your decision is made. You may really like a sorority's values or philanthropy but after meeting some of the sisters, you may realize it wasn’t what you were expecting. That is OK and totally normal. Continue the recruitment process and give other sororities a fair chance. You never know what opportunities are waiting for you.
Do What is Best for You
Every round of recruitment, you will learn more about each sorority on campus. It is important as a PNM to make every decision for yourself. Don’t be influenced by family, friends, peers or alumni. It’s your decision! Just because all of your friends want to be apart of XYZ, doesn’t mean you have to
Ask Questions
I can’t stress this enough! Joining Greek life is a huge commitment, so if you’re confused or curious about something, don’t be scared to ask. Sisters are there to help you and answer your questions. Not only is it good to have your questions answered, it is also impressive to current sisters. If you’re asking questions and engaging in conversation, it shows that you have done your research and thought about where you see yourself in Greek life.
If the recruitment process is over and you still don’t feel a connection with a sorority, do not pick one! Don’t feel pressured to make a decision just because everyone else is. Remember that Greek life isn’t for everyone. If you did find a home in Greek life, congratulations! Enjoy the time you have with your sisters and get as involved as possible. You won't regret it.
Allie, I completely agree with all these tips for potential new members.It is so important to know all the options and have some background about the sororities that you're going to be visiting. I completely agree that you should be yourself as these 80+ girls could eventually become your sisters and you want your sisters to know the real you. I think the most important part that I can stress from this post is making sure that you find the home for you. Even if you and your best friend find different homes, you're still allowed to be friends. Going through recruitment is a great time whether your trying to find your new home or finding new sisters to join your home.
ReplyDeleteAllie,
ReplyDeleteI really like the tips you gave for any potential new members. I am not affiliated with Greek Life, but many of my friends are in a sorority. Whenever you are trying something new, it is important to stay true to yourself and values. You should never change your personality just to try and fit in with a specific group of girls. I also like that you stress the importance of asking questions. You will never know the answer, if you do not ask the questions. Trying anything new is overwhelming and stressful, so by asking questions you may begin to feel comfortable in this new situation. Overall, I loved the tips you gave regarding recruitment, and I think they can translate into other aspects of life.
Allie,
ReplyDeleteI love this! You could not have said this any better! I think one of the hardest things to tell a PNM is to keep her mind open. It can be hard when going through recruitment because you might be tempted to go through with your roommate or friends, but what might be right for them isn't always right for you. It is important to remember that no matter where you call your home, you will always have supportive sisters there for you.
Allie,
ReplyDeleteThis is really great! I've been on both sides of recruitment now, and I think you nailed this. PNM's have a hard time with recruitment because it is all so exciting, but I think your 5 tips were spot on. I think the most important one is number 3, keep your options open. This could not have been said any better. When going through recruitment we are excited about where we could end up, but nervous we might not get to be with our friends. I know going through this was the hardest part for me. All of my friends went to a different sorority and I too thought about going there, but I had to pick what was best for me! I am so excited to see where everyone ends up! Best of luck with this year's recruitment!