What is a Sorority?

A sorority is defined as a women's student organization that is formed chiefly for social purposes and has a name consisting of Greek letters. However, it offers much more than just membership or social purposes. A sorority provides academic enhancement, friendship, development of leadership skills and the opportunity to serve the community. As a national organization, a sorority generates personal and professional growth through networking and participating in other activities well beyond your college years.

Why do you want to belong to a Sorority?

This is a question that needs to be taken seriously and should be well thought out and answered honestly. Is there any one right magic answer? Of course not, but it should be answered from the heart.

How do you know which is right for you?

The one thing that we cannot stress enough is do your research!!! Being a part of a sorority is a lifetime commitment. You need to know what you are getting into. You would not go to college without finding out any information right? So why would you do the same when trying to decide on a sorority. The Internet is a great place to start.

Should you make your interest known early?

Note: This question is going to be answered from a Sigma Gamma Rho perspective. How are you going to become a part of this organization unless you let us know that you are interested. The key is to go about it in a professional manner. Be yourself and let us know that you would like additional information on the sorority. It is ok to let us know that you are interested, but you do not have to let the entire world know! Also remember, just because you may have family and or friends who are a part of this organization, will not guarantee membership.

How do you meet the members of the sorority you wish to belong to?

Well the best way is to get out there and be active on campus. Most Greeks are very active on the yard. They are in other organizations, HA's, tutors, etc. You are bound to encounter someone who is apart of the sorority, you wish to belong to. Specifically for us, if you see us on the yard, speak and say hello. You can feel free to introduce yourself or email us for more information. Also, come to our events and activities. If you only come to the Interest Meeting, you have not given us the chance to get to know you and decide if we want to invite you into our family.

What is the sorority looking for in a member?

Well the answer to this could be a number of things, but for the most part someone who is going to be dedicated, focused and well rounded. If you are not, then at least be willing to be the best person you can be. It is often said that once you join a sorority you are buying friends, but the truth is you are building a bond of life long friendships and experiences that will be with you forever. The history behind each sorority is amazing and we all were founded by strong, focused women. Imagine being involved in something that may be as old as your grandmother or even your great-grandmother. The bottom line is, just like in life, Greek life is what YOU make of it. It can be a wonderful experience, or it can be horrible. One thing we do stress is, please keep your reputation intact. A horrible reputation can follow you forever!! It can not only ruin your chances of getting into a sorority, but it can hurt you in other areas of your life as well. Remember once you are a member of any organization you represent all of your sorors and vise-versa.

What if you do not have the grades to become a member of a sorority?

Well that is easy, work on them!! Not just to become a member of a sorority, but for yourself. Your education is most important. That is why you are in college in the first place, at least that should be your Reason. The key is to not let your grades slip in the first place, because it is very hard to bring them back up. We all have pitfalls from time to time, but try to keep them at a minimum.

"I want to step, do the call and be popular!"

If this has ever come out of your mouth, you are definitely not ready to become Greek. Being a member of a sorority is not just about the colors, stepping and the call. It is about uplifting yourself and the community. A lot of people do not realize how much Greeks actually do, within the community and on the college campus! Three letters across your chest is not going to make you any more or less attractive.

These are the opinions of the Lambda Pi Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and should be used as a helpful guideline only, and not as a guarantee for membership into any sorority.