Entering college is one of the most thrilling yet overwhelming experiences. First-years – like me – arrive on campus, eager to make new friends, find their place and get as involved as possible.
One of the most dynamic and rewarding ways to jumpstart this journey is by joining Greek life.
Greek life provides an instant community. For many first-years, adjusting to the newness of college life can be very difficult and daunting, especially if you are dorming like I am. Being away from family, thrown into unfamiliar environments and trying to make friends in classes with students you don’t know can be isolating.
By joining a fraternity or a sorority, students are immediately plunged into a group of peers who have the same interests and are similar to each other. These organizations have long-standing traditions that create a deep sense of belonging on day one.
I felt skeptical and scared. I felt worried that I would not find my “people.” My parents mentioned Greek life and how my mom was a part of a sorority. They told me to take the big leap, go out of my comfort zone and join Greek life. I came into college not knowing what organizations I wanted to join.
I am a person who loves having fun with friends but still wants to be busy and involved. Beyond social bonds, Greek life offers incredible leadership and networking opportunities. College is just as much about personal growth as it is about academics, and Greek organizations are designed for fostering leadership.
Whether it’s holding an executive board position, planning philanthropy events or managing the logistics of running a chapter, Greek members are often entrusted with significant responsibilities that teach valuable life skills. First-years who dive into Greek life get a head start on building leadership experience, which can be a huge advantage when it comes to applying for internships or jobs down the line.
Another overlooked benefit is the long-term network Greek life provides. Alumni connections are strong and members often gain access to a vast professional network. This can be invaluable when navigating post-graduation career opportunities. First-years who join have three or four years to build relationships within this network, which can give them a leg up when they’re job hunting after college.
This is so important because having connections before you graduate is one of the biggest things you can do. Being involved in Greek life gives you that opportunity. You are not just a family with your specific fraternity or sorority, you are family with all of them. I have made so many close friends being in Gamma Phi Beta, and I have only been here for a couple of months. I have met so many girls who have the same beliefs and interests that I do.
Philanthropy is one of the core reasons I joined a sorority. Gamma Phi Beta’s philanthropic partner is “Girls on the Run.” It stood out for me because “Girls on the Run” is a national non-profit organization that provides physical activities to enhance girls’ social, emotional and physical skills, helping them navigate life experiences. This means so much to me because I feel like empowering women is very important.
Every fraternity and sorority offers a different philanthropy. Everyone who joins has an opportunity to raise awareness for all different kinds of things going on in the world. Greek organizations place a huge emphasis on charitable costs, hosting events and raising funds for various philanthropies.
For first-years who want to make a positive impact, this is a great way to get deeply involved. Being in Greek life has honestly built my character while fostering a sense of purpose. I am so happy my parents pushed me to join a sorority my first year. I have made so many friends, been to so many events that raise awareness for important things in the world and made so many connections across campus.
Do not be afraid to take a step forward and join a sorority. You will find your family, friends and your people.
