New Member Spotlight: Vivian Walker

Note from the interviewer:

I had such a great time interviewing Vivian in one of our amazing coffee shops downtown. Her warm and genuine personality really shines through when talking to her. She is someone to get to know when you see her around campus. 

Where are you from?

Macon, Georgia

Why did you choose to go to UNA?

My mom’s sorority sister told us about UNA when we ran into her in Auburn and she told us about the scholarship for people that are from out of state so that’s what really clenched it for us.

Why did you do recruitment?

My step mom was in a sorority and told me about it and I started seeing how her connections have stayed all of these years and how genuine they are. Then one particular sorority stuck out to me during welcome week and they were the ones that broke the stereotypical sorority girl for me.

What was your view of sororities before recruitment compared to now?

I honestly lived under a rock. Growing up you hear these stereotypes and believe them unfairly. Now, I realize it is a bunch of girls who take you are you are and help one another.

What did you think when you opened your bid?

Going in I really wanted the group I met during welcome week that broke the mold for me, but my roommate and the people I knew wanted somewhere else so it made me torn. On bid day when we all tore apart our bids I was so excited I got where I wanted and they all got where they wanted… but we weren't together. For a few minutes I was bummed because we were in different sororities but then I met my pledge class and I only got more excited to run home.

What is your definition of “sorority”?

Sorority is learning to accept and love one another for our flaws and learning how to work together. I mean no two sororities are exactly the same so it is nice learning to work together.

What were you most excited about by being a new member in your sorority before recruitment and what are you now looking forward to when you become an initiated member?

I didn’t know what to expect in a sorority coming in. I was looking forward to making that lasting bond. In the future I have high hopes to build my chapter to be the best it can be. I love my chapter and I only want to make it better.

New Member Spotlight: Erin and Rachel Shockey

Note from the interviewer:

This week we will be focusing on our new members. When I first thought of who to interview for this series I immediately thought of these two. Being on the other side of recruitment I got to see them throughout their entire process and watch their reactions on bid day. I have seen these two flourish in their own unique ways that really show off their amazing personalities. I really enjoyed my interview with them and encourage you to get to know them just like I did.

First off, where are you from?

Madison. Bob Jones

Why did you choose UNA?

E: We both played volleyball in high school and I was choosing colleges based on volleyball scholarships and this was the only place I was considering not playing at and I chose here because I prayed about it and I was at peace here.

R: We went to a big high school, and while it was awesome I chose a smaller college because it felt homey and like I would have a voice here and I would not be just a number; a place where I could get to know my professors and small class sizes.

Why did you go through recruitment?

E: Well it’s funny because I wasn’t going to do recruitment but Rachel was. Since I wasn’t going to do volleyball at UNA I was wondering what I would do with my time. My high school volleyball coach really encouraged me to go through recruitment. She actually went to UNA and was in a sorority here and told me about how if I didn’t like it by the end of the week I didn’t have to take my bid but I would meet a lot of people throughout the process. I really respect her and her opinion so I decided to go through. I think she knew that I would have taken my bid at the end of the week no matter what.

R: In high school we had 2 best friends who are our support system besides our parents because they are so strong in their faith and when they went off to two different schools I decided to go through recruitment so I could have strong friendships like that here. It’s been great. I’ve already been making amazing friends and I love it!

What was your idea of a sisterhood before recruitment and how is it compared to now?

E: Beforehand I thought that with that many girls in one place there would be drama or whatever. I didn’t know how deep it actually is. I had no idea what sororities were about. It’s about having each other’s backs and loving each other. After step show it was crazy to me how much of a bond we already have. You are all joined together by something bigger than yourself.

R: I kind of went into recruitment blind. Even though our dad was in a fraternity no woman in our family was Greek. I mean fraternities and sororities are different so I had no idea what I was wanting to enter into. I just thought sororities were a bunch of girls that hung out and went places together. Sisterhood and values night was a real eye opener to me. Now I realize it’s a lot deeper than I thought it would be. It’s who you are as a person and pushes you to be the best person you can be.

Define sisterhood.

R: Wow, that really hard. It’s just knowing that no matter what people will do anything and everything for you. They are your support system and encourage you to be the best person you can be.

E: I mean Rachel and I have our own sisterhood, but it’s not the same. While I always have her best interest at heart it’s someone who would drop everything for you. Someone who would stand out in the rain and miss a college football game while you have a flat tire. If I had to define sisterhood it would be going through life with people no matter your background and loving them regardless of how different they are from you.

What was your first thought when you opened your bid?

E: I honestly thought that I was going to go somewhere else so when I opened my bid I was in shock. Rachel’s Gamma Chi group and mine were right beside each other and I instantly thought of her and looked at her. I saw her jumping and smiling and I was a mixture of emotions. I was upset that I wasn’t going where I thought I was going to and confused that something like this had happened.

R: My first thought was “Oh my gosh this is great!” My second thought was Erin and when I looked up I saw she wasn’t okay. I never even thought about us being in different sororities because we have been together our whole lives. I thought this had to be a mistake. It was a mixture of happiness and sadness.

What did you think when you two got two different homes?

E: I thought the world was crumpling around me. I thought it was the worst thing that could happen. We told each other we would be in the same sorority before recruitment so when we didn’t end up in the same place I felt so alone.

R: I almost felt bad for being happy for going where I wanted to be. I didn’t prepare myself for that because I didn’t think it could be a possibility. I was so stunned and also felt so alone.

What are the pros and cons to being in different sororities?

E: On bid day I was crying on the way to the events and I had 3 different girls that all sat with me and talked to me about everything and how it wasn’t a mistake I was there because they wanted me so badly. Every girl was so concerned when they didn’t even know me. It’s best feeling to be wanted. Rachel and I are so different and we are seeing our differences so much more now. The best thing is I’m seen as an individual. Our whole life we have been mixed up since we are identical twins, but when I walk onto the floor they know who I am. Now because we are in different sororities I get to know twice as many people and I really feel like we are bridging both chapters in a way.

R: You are loved who you are not who y’all are. You aren’t loved for being “the twins”. Erin is much more of the outgoing one and I felt like my confidence came from her, but being in different sororities it helps me be confident in my individual self. It’s really helped me as a person.

E: One of the cons is I can’t wear her t-shirts. I mean what college girl doesn’t love t-shirts?

R: One of the cons for me is that some times I will be missing her throughout the day when she is busy doing her own sorority thing. We have a blood bond, which makes it worse X1000.

Your Freshman Year at UNA as Told by Kimmy Schmidt

Your freshman year of college is incredible. Some might even call it your best. Whether you leapt across state lines for the chance to start over and prove your independence, or decided to treat college like a hipster treats beer, (locally crafted with just a touch of loving nostalgia) and receive a higher education right in your back yard, it’s the year that you and your life start the transition from clueless (this is the part where you’re thinking “Me? Clueless? As if!”) high school student into your “post-adolescent idealistic phase.” As dramatic as that sounds, it’s absolutely true. Don’t worry though, because you’re far from alone; throughout the good and the bad you’ll always have one friend who you can relate, Kimmy Schmidt who is "Unbreakable".

Your freshman year is so exciting simply due to the amount of freedom you now have. You make the decisions on everything from where you go to school right down to when you want to take a nap. Amidst all those choices, one of the biggest ones you’ll have to make is where you’re going to live and who you’re going to live with. More often than not, the place you’ll be living is a dorm reserved strictly for freshmen and the person you’ll be living with is a stranger.

Just like Kimmy didn’t know her bunk-sters (Get it? Like bunk-mates and sisters? No? Oh, okay. I’ll stop trying to make jokes now) you won’t know everyone on your floor or in your building. This can seem a little overwhelming at first, but pretty soon after you move in and the semester starts terms like “that building” and “those strangers” evolve into “home” and “family.” You find yourself becoming close with your RA, people who live above and below you, even people you never expected to be friends with. Being in such close proximity and sharing similar experiences are the two biggest factors that contribute to creating a bond with your fellow residents that will go on even after you’ve been freed from the bunker.

Jacqueline Voorhes = Every Upperclassman Ever

One of the most intimidating things about college is looking at the older students and coming to the realization that the stressed out senior you see every time you got to Collier will one day be you. You’re pretty sure they live there and don’t actually have an apartment. How else would they be able to spend SO much time there?! College is where you start to narrow down what you want to do for the rest of your life. The process of what is ultimately choosing a career that matches your passions and interests is grueling, but all the sophomores/juniors/seniors make it look sooo easy. They have everything planned out, right? WRONG. When you first meet an upperclassman, the impression they give you will be reminiscent of when Kimmy first met Jackie. They’ll have it all and more, but once you start to take a closer look you notice that they actually aren’t as perfect and put together as they seem. 

I’m a junior and, like most of my peers, I’m still not entirely sure of what I want to do when I graduate. So when the moment comes that you’re stressed about switching majors or trying to plan your future and you feel the urge to just drop out and be a hippie that sells fortunes for the rest of your days, remember to take a moment and breathe. You are definitely not alone in that feeling. To quote High School Musical, “We’re all in this together.” Find someone who’s a little older to talk to and swap perspectives with. The cool thing about college is that there is always an opportunity to learn something from someone, whether it’s an 18 year old bright eyed freshman, or that one professor that everyone loves. Just like Jackie needs Kimmy sometimes, the veterans of the college need you, the freshman, to help us out too. So go on you new freshman with your bright eyes and new ideas. It's your year. Make it how you want. 

Written by Nicole Morris; Edited by UNA Panhellenic

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

They're All the Same {MythBusters}

​I am certain that if you heard Lily Pulitzer, chubbies, Yeti coolers, XL t-shirts, “norts”, and monogramming all in one sentence your first assumption would be that we are speaking of Greeks. Well these are just a few of the stereotypical fads that are paired with members of a Greek organization. A common myth you’ve probably heard about Greeks is that “They are all the same”. I am here to prove this stereotype wrong for all of you who believe it to be accurate. I myself am Greek and if you would have known me before college you would have never guessed I would have been the type of girl to find a home in a sorority. I actually recall telling my friends in high school that I was going Greek and they all genuinely thought I was joking. That could be because in high school you would have seen me walking the halls in a pair of converse and a t-shirt with a punk band on it (yes I went through that awkward punk stage). Anyways I had never heard of Lily Pulitzer and I had never owned anything with my initials monogrammed into it…well unless you count my purple L.L. Bean backpack that I used to carry down the halls of my junior high school (but I mean who didn’t have one of those). I played soccer and basketball and never cheered a day in my life. I guess you could say I was a tomboy. Scratch that…I was definitely a tomboy. Basically what I am getting at is that I wasn’t the type of girl that you may think would belong to a sorority in college because I obviously didn’t fit the “standards”, right? Wrong!

(My standard was I didn't fit the "standard")

​To my surprise, and my friends' surprise, I very skeptically decided I was going to go through recruitment. I told myself that if I didn’t fit in I would just find something else to be a part of on campus. The more I heard about sorority life from a couple rumors and the more I saw from the movies (The House Bunny) the more I started convincing myself that I wasn’t going to fit in and that terrified me. However, upon my skepticism I took a risk that I will never regret.  

​Today I have been a member of my sorority for 3 years and I can honestly say that I haven’t had to change anything about myself to “fit in”. I wear my same old converse, rips and all, almost every day. I can see how Greeks may be perceived as being very similar to one another. Yes! Most of us in a sorority might wear big t-shirts and running shorts…but I mean WOW if you tried this outfit just once you’d probably never want to wear anything different because of the comfort. However, behind the outfits and brands we are all so very different. In fact, diversity is a word that you will hear often within the Greek community and for good reason. Each brother and sister that makes up Greek life comes from a different background and lifestyle. What you rarely see as an outsider is how we come together as an organization to learn from one another’s differences and grow individually from them. Honestly one of the greatest things I have learned from being Greek is that "being you" is a beautiful quality to possess and my sisters accept me for the person I am. It is heartwarming to see girls feel so comfortable and encouraged around each other to not be afraid to be who they are.

     I think this is one of those myths that can only be proven wrong from the inside and that is why I sit here typing this as a genuine inside source of the Greek community to tell you that the men and women that make up Greek life are all very unique in their own way. That unique quality lies within every brother and sister of the Greek community whether it be behind the large t-shirt and “norts”, or in my case, the flannels and converse, and I encourage everyone that believes this myth to be true to take some time to truthfully get to know a brother or sister of a Greek community. I promise this myth will be busted.

      Written by Paige Droulliard; Edited by UNA Panhellenic 

You Pay for Your Friends {MythBusters}

As a recruitment counselor, I frequently hear young women using the excuse, “I don’t want to pay for my friends,” as justification for deciding not to go through sorority recruitment. Although this is a valid statement for individuals who are unaware of what a sorority stands for, I am writing this to reassure all you readers that this statement, is in fact, false.

I get it, as soon as you pledge a sorority you are required to pay initiation fees, membership dues, and other various social payments, but just like any other club you find yourself joining on campus there are financial obligations that are involved in making these organizations successful. A sorority is probably a lot bigger than what you have in mind. Each sorority has a national executive office (A.K.A. headquarters).

 Membership dues allow for the chapter to carry out various functions such as…PHILANTHROPY EVENTS! 26 various sororities alone raised over $5,000,000 in philanthropy money (membership dues look pretty small now, right?). One part of being in a sorority is learning to serve others, and in order for us to serve others effectively there must be funds available. That being said, although there are those required dues, many of the charges you might receive are simply voluntary. It is not a requirement, but merely a choice, to buy every t-shirt that is designed or to attend every single date party/formal that is planned.  

We also need to keep in mind that sororities also provide opportunities for its members! Many sororities provide opportunities for those members who demonstrate academic success and thrive in leadership abilities to be rewarded scholarships because they truly enjoy helping you succeed. So along with holding you accountable for your grades and providing leadership opportunities, your chapter also has the potential to contribute to YOU financially.

During my time as being a Gamma Chi recruitment counselor, one thing I constantly remind girls going through recruitment, happens to be my favorite and the most relevant statement I have heard since I have been a sorority member, and that is, “YOU GET OUT WHAT YOU PUT IN!” (and I’m not talking about the money). Just because you pay your monthly dues does not mean you automatically have friends. How silly would it be for you to assume that when we pay our bills we are suddenly going to have best friends blowing your phone up to hang out? Yes, when you are a member of a sorority you do have tons of sisters, but sisterhood is different than friendship. When you join a specific sisterhood you are only promised to have ONE thing in common with all of the other members…. Your promise to uphold and live out the values of your chapter. It is important to remember that as members of a sorority we are still human beings and work to build those relationships with each other. 

After I’ve said all that, I’ll go on to say, the experiences, life lessons, knowledge, and relationships I’ve acquired during my time in my chapter are PRICELESS and if I’m going to be stereotyped for paying for my friends I certainly have not paid enough.

Written by Guest Writer, Mary Ware; Edited by UNA Panhellenic