I joined my chapter 3 years ago expecting sisterhood to be exclusive to the chapter I joined. But, oh, was I wrong…
I walked in holding to this belief that I would only find my people in my sorority. I bought into the stereotype that even though members of every Panhellenic chapter are “sisters,” cross-chapter relationships were competitive, not real friendships.
Driven by the desire to grow both in leadership and friendship, I decided to apply for a position on my campus’ Panhellenic Executive Board. I vividly remember how terrified I was walking into my interview thinking, “Will these women from other chapters see my qualifications past the letters that separate us?” I was even more nervous when I found out that I had actually gotten the position! In my first meeting, I remember wondering if these eight incredible leaders from different chapters than me would accept me and my leadership.
Now that my term as a council officer has come to an end, I look back on that decision I made to immerse myself in Panhellenic and cannot imagine my college experience without those sisters – women in other chapters who I never would have had the opportunity to meet or befriend if I hadn’t taken that risk.
I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for Panhellenic love becoming a reality to me. These women became my support system when things got tough, when school was overwhelming, and when I struggled to see myself as the leader they knew I was. The bonds we formed, despite the differences of our chapters, have truly been invaluable.
During this same time, I also found one of my best friends and now roommate, Ryan. We share the same values, beliefs, and outlook on life even though we joined different sororities. She’s the kind of friend I didn’t even realize I needed, and it’s been such a blessing to experience these college years alongside her.
And with me through it all, there are my Alpha Phi sisters. How lucky am I to be surrounded by such a warm, welcoming, and supportive group of women who didn’t fear my branching out to befriend women or lead in the community? These women have encouraged me every step of the way, cheering me on in every endeavor and offering a shoulder to lean on whenever I falter.
In the Panhellenic Creed, it cites our motivation as being “inspired by the close contact and deep friendship of individual fraternity and Panhellenic life.” These words we read at every meeting have taken shape in my real life. If you’re reading these words and curious about what Panhellenic life can be for you, I encourage you to take the leap. Whether you choose Panhellenic by participating in COB, joining a committee, or running for an Executive Board position, I can promise it will enrich your college experience in unexpected and wonderful ways. As a college senior, I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity to have built so many lasting friendships across the Panhellenic community.
I’m leaving my college experience holding close bonds with women from all eleven chapters on my campus. Panhellenic love is a true gift that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
