Joining a sorority is a decision that will have a big impact on your life. It’s one of those special things that make college life exciting! And don’t forget that your sorority membership might also influence your life beyond college; networking is one of the main benefits of joining. However, it’s important to understand that taking this step might not be as easy as you think. To adapt fully to sorority life, you’ll need to prepare for the most important challenges, which are rush and surviving in the sorority house itself. If you’ve considered all the pros and cons and have decided to embark on your Greek life journey, you’ll need to prepare thoroughly and plan your studies in order to ensure that they don’t suffer as a consequence of your decision. Research indicates that a student’s GPA drops after going Greek, but for sorority members, it picks up after the first year, and girls benefit in particular from having a strong support network. The trick is to manage your time and keep your classes in check while adapting to your new Greek life.
Tips on surviving sorority rush
Wear comfy shoes
While dressing for the sorority rush is the subject of much debate, one thing everyone agrees on is that you must wear comfortable shoes. There will be a lot of walking and standing involved, so don’t let a blister ruin your chances of making it to your dream sorority.
Wear smart (but not too flashy) clothes
The first rule of dressing up for your sorority rush is to be yourself. Are you the kind of gal who loves her dresses? Then go out in a dress you’ll feel comfortable in. It’s important to be comfortable in your clothes without trying to show off. Remember, the girls you’re talking to want to know what kind of person you are, not how good you can look in the latest fashions.
Pro tip: Prepare your clothes in good time so you aren’t bogged down by ironing during rush, and have spare outfits in case of a spill or something.
Always keep an open mind
To make the right decision about which sorority suits you best, you need to understand its core values and consider how they align with your own. Don’t let any preconceptions sway you but listen, absorb information, and ask questions.
Be yourself
Sorority rush can be competitive, as even having the experience of a sorority listed on your résumé might help you land a job. But you shouldn’t let the stress get to you and try to “score a place” by pretending to be someone you think the sorority girls will like. Always be yourself, even if you’re awkward and nervous. Honesty is the key not only to getting into a sorority but enjoying it when you do.
Related: Her Campus Q&A: Sororities and Greek Life
Living in a sorority house: what to prepare for
Bear in mind that not all sorority houses are luxurious mansions like these. You’ll need to know how to deal with common dorm room issues, and even if you do manage to get into a place with a great house, some basic repair skills might be needed in case of an emergency. Study a few DIY repair guides to know how to tackle common problems.
A lack of privacy
Sorority houses are usually full, and no matter which chapter you join, gossip will fly through the house at the speed of light. Your life will be pretty much an open book for your sisters. If you can’t cope with this, reconsider joining a sorority. But remember that these groups are very close-knit and this kind of thing can be good, as you’ll get support and find acceptance too.
Active social life
Living in a sorority house means interacting with lots of people at all times. Be prepared to have a full social life even if you’ve never had this before. In fact, this might be one of your main reasons to join.
Related: How to Choose Your Best Greek Life
Conflicts
No house is perfect, and sorority houses have their share of conflicts. You’ll need to learn how to navigate a situation where you might not get along with all your housemates. Of course this does happen in all walks of life, and it’s great preparation for an office job.
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