We all know that one of the best parts of joining a sorority is the sisterhood and the relationships you build within your own chapter. But something that’s often overlooked is the opportunity to form connections and sisterly bonds with women in other chapters.
Even though we belong to different sororities with unique values, we are all Panhellenic women — united by the shared values of the National Panhellenic Conference: belonging, collaboration, relevance, and respect.
We often hear about sisterhood events within individual chapters, but did you know that many sororities co-host sisterhood events with other chapters on campus? Last semester, my chapter organized bi-weekly “sisterhood swaps” with different chapters, hosting fun activities like bracelet making, yoga sessions, and ice cream socials. These events are a great way to meet women from other chapters whom you might not otherwise cross paths with.
Another great way to connect with members of other chapters is by pursuing leadership opportunities within your Panhellenic community. This doesn’t just mean running for Panhellenic Executive Board — many Panhellenic communities also have committees made up of members from all chapters. These roles provide an incredible chance to collaborate, lead, and build lasting friendships with Panhellenic women across your campus.
When I did not get a position in my chapter this year, I was devastated. I had always been a leader in the organizations I was a part of, and I took pride in knowing I could help those around me through my leadership and problem-solving skills.
Little did I know, not getting a leadership position in my chapter was a blessing in disguise, because it led me to Panhellenic. I applied for the Panhellenic Recruitment Team on a whim. I was desperate to stay involved in leadership within the Greek community. I interviewed for the Director of Marketing position, and after a nerve-wracking two weeks, I found out I got the role.
I was so excited for the opportunity to serve my Panhellenic community and hold a position in marketing, one of my passions. But as I walked into the first meeting, I was hit with a wave of nerves. There was only one other member from my chapter, whom I did not know, and I was one of the younger members of the team.
However, from the moment I walked through the door, I was met with warmth and acceptance. Even though the 17 of us represented nine different sororities, we were united by our shared passion for recruitment.
One of my favorite memories with the Recruitment Team was our retreat in March. It was a weekend-long camp where we trained our new Recruitment Counselors and prepared for the upcoming recruitment season. Spending the weekend bonding with the team and the new counselors was so special. One night, after training wrapped up, the Recruitment Team spent hours singing karaoke and talking in each other’s cabins. Our Recruitment Team has formed a sisterhood and I can truly say that women on Recruitment Team have become some of my best friends.
The relationships that I have formed with the other women over the past six months have been truly invaluable and my college experience would not be the same without them. Now, as we head into recruitment in August, I know that the bonds we’ve formed will help us collaborate and create an incredible experience for PNMs.
As you go through your own sorority journey, I encourage you to take every opportunity to connect with other Panhellenic women. These friendships can enrich your experience in ways you might never expect.
