5 Things to Keep In Mind About Keeping An Open Mind

Deciding to go through sorority recruitment is a personal choice made for a variety of different reasons. Whether it’s because you want to make more friends, get involved, or to become a part of something bigger than yourself those are all excellent reasons for making that decision. Most of us can relate to why we joined a sorority. After all, that’s something everyone can agree on no matter how different we are. Girls spend weeks preparing for formal recruitment. Whether it’s the PNM’s or the members themselves there is so much preparation that goes into the process as a whole. So, to make your sorority recruitment a little easier here are 5 things to keep in mind when you are keeping an open mind.

1. Be Yourself.

Being yourself is probably the most important thing to remember when going through recruitment. This goes both ways. It’s important for the PNM’s to be themselves as well as the members. Remember that you are meeting these women for the first time just like they are meeting you. The whole process is completely insane but it works. This is your chance to let your true colors shine and to be exactly who you are. College is a time in which you find yourself. So if that means you are preppy, boho, or edgy this is your chance to be you and find your home where you truly fit.

2. Don’t Believe Everything You Hear.

Not everything you see in the movies about Greek life is accurate. This goes along with what you hear from boys as well. Don’t believe everything you hear about each sorority. Chances are the rumors are false. Get to know these women. Attend campus events before rush. Go out of your way to talk to girls with letters on in class. You will be surprised once you actually get to know these women. A majority of the opinions you come into contact with may be false, extremely biased, or outdated. Trust your gut and keep an open mind.

3. Be Honest.

Be honest with the girls, but more importantly be honest with yourself. After all, you are making this decision for you and this is your time to be truly happy. Think about the sororities that challenge you and make you want to be a better version of yourself. Don’t let anyone pressure you into pledging a sorority that you do not feel completely comfortable in. Stay in touch with your inner self and block the excess opinions out. Honesty is the best policy especially when it comes to recruitment.  Pledge the sorority that you feel is the right choice in your heart.

4. Ask Questions.

During the parties with each sorority take the time to find out their strengths and weaknesses and compare them with your own.  This is important because you need to find a sorority that challenges you. Find out what campus activities they are involved in and ask yourself if you would like to be involved in some of those things as well.  Being in a sorority opens so many doors for different involvement opportunities on and off campus. With the support of your sisters you may gain the courage to really get out there and take advantage of your time here at UNA.

5. Don’t Stress.

The recruitment process is designed to help you end up where you are supposed to be. Don’t worry about ending up in the “wrong place” or not getting a bid. Focus on your wants and needs and the rest will come naturally.  The girls on the other side are just as nervous as you. We all went through recruitment so we understand the emotions are at an all time high. Trust your instincts, take a deep breath, and relax. What’s meant to be will be.

Keeping an open mind is so important and if you follow these 5 tips you are sure to have a better recruitment experience. Joining a sorority is so much more than you could ever imagine. From the outside looking in you don’t understand it and from the inside looking out you can’t explain it. The friends you gain, the memories you make, and the experiences you will have make college unforgettable. Time flies when you are having fun, and I promise it will go by much faster than you think.

Written by Maryanne Fults; Edited by UNA Panhellenic