Sorority recruitment is a stressful process- especially for a Potential New Member (PNM). The huge transition from high school to college comes with a lot of things to worry about, recruitment often being the first thing on the list. I wish I could have lunch with every PNM to help answer questions about the process and how to prepare, but that’s simply impossible. So here is a quick list of what to do and what NOT to do in preparation for your entrance into sorority life:
The DO’s and DON’T’s of sorority recruitment prep
1. DO clean up your social media, its the fastest way for chapter members to learn more about you before meeting you face-to-face and you don't want to make a bad first impression.
2. DO feel free to get your hair done/nails manicured/teeth whitened. If you look your best you’ll feel more confident!
3. DON’T be a cookie-cutter when it comes to your outfits! Chapters want to see your personality, what makes you an individual. So go ahead, wear your favorite Haute Hippie sequined shorts or that giant monogramed hair bow you just bought on Etsy. Plus it’ll be a great conversation starter!
4. DO remember that for the preference round (the final day of recruitment) most chapters have their members dress in all black or all white, so you may want to choose a dress that is neither of those colors.
5. DO take a tote or purse with you with a little notebook and a pen so you can write down thoughts/feelings about each house after you visit. At the schools with a large Panhellenic system the chapters tend to blend together that first day. Also consider packing things you can use to freshen yourself up like travel sized deodorant, blotting tissues, wash cloth, and a hand fan.
6. DON’T be too overwhelmed on your first day – I know that’s almost impossible but here’s your fair warning – most sororities on most campuses chant and sing very loudly, in unison… just like the movies. It's supposed to be fun and peppy so don't be afraid to smile and wave back!
7. DON’T listen to any/all rumors you have heard about the chapters/the Recruitment process at your university. 99% of them aren’t true and 100% of them cause unnecessary stress.
8. DO go in open minded. It’s the best way to let yourself really reflect and decide which chapter you feel most comfortable in.
9. DO relax! Believe it or not every thing works out like it’s supposed to. Trust the system, it has worked for decades of sorority women and you will be no exception☺
Luckily all the beatification you do lasts after Bid Day, cause you’ll want to look your best for the first week of class, football games and date parties. Fall semester is one big photo op and you’ll be glad you put in all the effort you did for recruitment. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
At the end of the day all everyone wants is for every PNM to be happy with the sorority they commit to. And going Greek will be the best decision of your life- it will change you for the better in an immeasurable amount of ways. I was a PNM just short two years ago and looking for pictures for this article nearly brought me to (happy) tears because every Bid Day you can see the emotion on the girl’s faces who have just joined sisterhood and a lifetime of memories, laughs and tears. My sorority is the best thing that’s ever happened to me and I can’t wait for the next round of women to join our panhellenic ranks! Remember you only choose once, so choose wisely. And may the odds be ever in your favor…
XOXO
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