Quality over Quantity

There are many things I learned during my time as an active sister of  Phi Sigma Sigma. I learned to a leader, I learned to trust my own voice, I learned my own strength.

While I learned a great deal about myself, I learned even more about Greek Life, and what is expected and required of its members. One of the things, are that the quality of the girls each chapter is more important than the quantity.

Granted, I went to a private university where Greek Life only made 13 percent of the student population. That being said, this might be different for larger schools. However, the general moral is that as Greeks, we should want the best, we should consider this while recruiting and even more when extending a bid.

With all the pressures by nationals and universities to maintain above a certain number, it is easy to forget that we are looking for the best women that we believe can represent our chapter’s ideals. While we want to be inclusive, we also should give every women the opportunity to prove they want to join us.

Ultimately, we want the women in our chapters to be the future leaders of our chapters, and if that means our numbers fluxgate, then so be it. So as you start planning for spring recuitment, consider, remember, and think: Quality over Quantity. 

Tips for Girls Going through Spring Recruitment

     Spring Recruitment or Continuous Open Bidding is what chapters do if they need to meet quota. Not every chapter does it but sometimes even if they had a great fall recruitment a chapter has some spots to fill, because some seniors graduated or maybe a few girls from the last pledge class dropped. Its a great way to join a sorority especially if the thought of going through in the fall with a bunch of other girls gives you anxiety.
                      Spring Recruitment is often more informal than fall recruitment but if you're going through it can still be stressful. The reason being is that the chapters participating accept only a handful of girls typically and generally you only go through recruitment for one or two chapters. Your options are limited so there's a lot of pressure to make a good impression in order to get a bid.              
  My advice for you if you are going through during spring semester is:          
 1. Take advantage of the informal atmosphere. Try to have genuine conversations with the sisters you meet at the events instead of just small talk. You aren't having timed conversations like formal recruitment so try to connect.       
2. It's casual but still look nice. It's cold outside so no one expects you to don a dress but do look put together. First impressions are very important.       Here's an example outfit: 

   
   3. If you know a sister in the Chapter pretty well let them know your going through. You can even name drop a little but don't seem desperate. You want to use your connections a little since they can take less girls but don't come off as though your trying too hard.             
        4. If you don't get in but really want to join try again. Sign up for formal recruitment in the fall. You'll have more options and the sororities can take more PNMs! 

10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Second Semester Senior Year

To All College Seniors,

The time has come when you start calling yourself a second semester senior. This is a time when you will cry about all the "last times" you do your favorite and least favorite things. The last fraternity party, the last night of your lease with your friends, or even the last time in the library (if you ever went before). These are all experiences that will be only memories in a few months.

Luckily, you still have one more semester to make the most of your time in college. This means taking advantage of ALL aspects of being a college student. Here are some suggestions to really make your last semester your most memorable one.

1. Make smaller resolutions. We all know it's a new year and there are things we want to work on. This year, consider creating more manageable short-term goals instead of attempting larger, more generalized resolutions. Check out this article with some suggestions: http://elitedaily.com/life/25-new-years-resolutions-every-person-should-actually-make-for-2014/

Or, you know, you can go in this direction: http://www.buzzfeed.com/joannaborns/realistic-new-years-resolutions#.nda5Vzbve

2. Find an internship. Believe it or not, you still have time to get an internship for this upcoming semester. Time to get some experience for your resume! While making Dean's List is impressive, most employers are really looking for experience. You can find internships or similar opportunities on your university's website, through word-of-mouth from friends, family friends, or classmates, and even from a search on Google. Remember, even unpaid internships are worth the invaluable experience!

3. Or get a part-time job. If money is tight and you cannot locate paid internships, there are other ways to get experience. In fact, that side job will help you improve many professional skills such as time-management, customer service, or communication. Plus, it will be helpful financially while you search for a full-time job after college.

4. Go out on a random night of the week. You still have a few months left when it is considered acceptable to go out every night of the week. If you have been doing well in school throughout your college life, time to celebrate your hard work. Party with the friends you will have forever along with the people you will leave behind at that bar. College is a tough balance of social life, school work, and sleep, but it is definitely possible to do it all! Well, at least do the first two.

5. Visit career services. Your university has this resource for a reason! This office can help you with writing a resume and cover letter, finding and applying to jobs, and interviewing. Check me out in this documentary series discussing how Rutgers University Career Services helped me get my dream internship: http://vimeo.com/99563486

6. Skip class to go to the bar. This may look like terrible advice, but now is the time to take risks and have fun! As long as this isn't a frequent choice, skipping a regular class to go to happy hour one time will not be a time you regret next year.

7. Maintain your college friendships. Figure out which of your college friends are the ones that make you feel the happiest. Keep them close and show them that they mean a lot to you. Even though they may not live near you after graduation, you can definitely keep those friends for a lifetime.

8. Keep on top of your schoolwork. Yes, I did say to skip a class. But you are ultimately at college to get a degree. Get good grades by keeping your notes and list of assignments organized, getting to know your professors, checking your email inbox at least every other day, and answering/asking at least one question in class. I know it's hard not to take a Snapchat selfie, but try to keep your phone away during class to avoid getting distracted from taking notes.

9. Stay involved on campus. I never said making the most out of your college experience would be easy, but it is worth every minute you lose of sleep. If you are part of a community service project, a leadership organization, a theater troupe, or a sorority, you may feel like you are burnt out from these clubs. Don't give up just yet! These clubs helped you make great friends while participating in fun and rewarding activities. All of these clubs are still just as enjoyable as long as you stay an active part of it.

10. Be nice to everyone. Hopefully, you are already doing this one. Being considerate to everyone whether they are friends, acquaintances, or strangers will make you feel better about yourself. Those people will most likely remember you for your kindness. And hey, they may just have the connections you need for your first job!

Motivation Monday

So like so many others getting back to the gym, getting in shape, or losing weight is one of your New Years Resolution. Here are a few tips to help make this year a healthier one for you!

1. Drink LOTS of water!
Their is nothing better for you than water. Drink it whenever you can, I try to even do it when I am bored.

2. Buy some new gym wear! 
It helps motivate you to wear it to the gym. I know I just got an awesome new pair of leggings and some sports bras from Target because they are having an athletics sale!

3. Reward yourself. 
Go to the gym three or four days a week, and on the last day treat yourself to some froyo. It is soooo yummy and even add some chocolate on top and make it extra sweet.

4. Go with a friend. 
Sometimes I know I love to go to the gym by myself but my friend Adriannah and I have been going together a lot. We are on the elliptical and I lose track of time when we talk, gossip, and catch up with one another!

5. Make it FUN! 
Take a Zumba class or even go to a trampoline place like Sky Zone! Work out and have a blast with friends!

Saying Goodbye

As everybody knows, we recently celebrated New Years.

I'm not sure how all of you brought in the New Year, but I spent it with some of my closest friends. Over the past few days, it occurred to me that a lot of people wanted to completely get rid of things from 2014.

I would be lying if I said that I didn't too, but in all honesty, I didn't say goodbye to everything. I said goodbye to all of the bad things that happened over the year. I had good friends pass away, I had someone who was like a second father pass away, and the love of my life passed away. I've been left broken hearted by the loss of people I love, but I was also delighted when I realized how loved that I am as a person.

Now that we're in the New Year, I just want to remind everyone not to completely say goodbye to the year 2014. You lived through it, it made you stronger. Don't say goodbye, just say goodbye to the ones that broke your heart. Say goodbye to the ones that did you wrong. Say goodbye to all of those bad memories that you remember from 2014. Don't say goodbye to your friends, your family, and the good memories that were made over the year. Sure, bad things happen, but I know that there were good things that happened to you as well!

Here's a challenge! Comment with at least ONE good memory that you have from 2014.

My favorite memory was from September. It was the weekend before I lost my soul mate. I was with a few of my sisters in Denver at a Haunted House. If you know me personally, you'd know that I am absolutely terrified of haunted houses, but I went in. I conquered a fear of mine and went to multiple haunted houses throughout the month. This was such a good memory for me because I was surrounded by the people I love while doing something I fear (which ended up turning into something that made me laugh, rather than scream).

Keep in mind those positive memories and create more positive, happy memories in 2015!

Happy New Year, loves!

Turning 21, A Self-Reflection of the Past

My 21^st birthday is quickly approaching and it’s extremely weird to say the least. Where has the time gone? Seriously?! Just yesterday I remember elementary school, cheerleading in middle school, and the difficulty of high school. College has by far been the greatest years of my life, I’m finally coming into my own, have found amazing friendships, and have grown my relationships within my family in an amazing way. The older you get, clearly you get more mature [well let’s at least hope so for some of us] but I know I’ve definitely changed even in the time between high school and college. College has definitely made me a better person, and I have my sorority to thank for a lot of it.

            I want to take the opportunity to name everything that I’m grateful for since I have a newfound love for self reflection and what better time to do it than approaching my 21^st?

            I’m first and foremost thankful for my family, my brothers, my parents, and my dogs. I’m so blessed to have such a close-knit family where we can laugh about anything and everything. I’m lucky to live where I live, have what I have, and most of all have caring family members that I can rely on for everything. My relationships with family have gotten nothing but stronger, and for those of you out there having rough patches with parents or siblings, time is your friend. As you mature and grow so does everyone else, and college definitely helps you appreciate family and the moments you spend together so much more.

            I’m thankful and appreciative of my friendships. Those before and after college, I’ve had amazing memories and experiences with them. From travelling to Europe, to Disney, and just stupid silly road trips we’ve gone on has made me so happy. I’m happy that I’ve stayed friends with those who meant the most to me before college, and I’m appreciative of the friendships I’ve rekindled or come in contact with again even if they’re not exactly the same as they were before, I’m still grateful for the friendship.

            I cannot be more grateful for my sorority sisters, and the love and craziness that they bring into my life. My big is my best friend, I have amazing rosebuds, and the best friends I could ever ask for. I know that whenever there’s someone I need I call or text them first and they’re always there to help me or to simply just hang out and eat Chinese. I’m also grateful for the opportunities it’s provided me with, to take on positions such as PR Chair, and to get more involved in community service than I ever have before.

            I’m grateful for my roommate. We’ve never been close before this year, but it’s safe to say that she’s one of my best friends and an amazing sorority sister. Our friendship is one that I appreciate because we can be our truest selves, we act like complete idiots and have the greatest heart to hearts I could ever ask for. She’s always there for me and a great person to annoy haha. We’ve grown so close and I couldn’t be more grateful.

            I’m grateful for the opportunities that have arisen for me, like starting a blog that has quickly become successful, becoming a writer on Sorority Girl Thoughts, and putting myself out there in the performing world. I’m so grateful to have finally found where I want my life to go as far as career path, and am proud of myself for rolling with the punches. All my life I thought I would go into one specific career but I’m proud of myself for realizing that maybe what I want to do is something else and becoming okay with it. I’m excited to realize that I want to go in a journalism, magazine, writing route and I’m proud of myself for figuring it out. I’ve performed recently for the first time in a while too, in a cabaret which would have never been an opportunity without my sorority so I am so excited to have pushed myself to perform and sing again.

            Lastly, even though there are so many things I am grateful for and could go on and on, I’m thankful for school. Although the work and classes are a hassle, it has brought me closer to my career, to new friendships, and an organization that I could never see my life without. College has brought me so much happiness and I’m happy I was able to adjust and enjoy it.

            As 21 approaches I’m scared but excited. Life has so much more to offer but I’m extremely grateful to have had the experiences I’ve had since they’ve shaped me into my [quickly approaching] 21 year old self. It’s ok to look forward, and I know so many people can’t wait to turn 21 but I’m okay with enjoying life as it comes and not worrying about the next best thing.

            Goodbye 20 year old me it’s been great, and I welcome 21 year old me with an open mind and heart.

New Year, New Semester, New Chapter

The New Year. A fresh start, a clean state, a new opportunity, not only to improve personally, but as a group.

While the New Year brings new resolutions for every person, how about taking your list of goals a step further. Consider the January 1^st to not only change you, but your chapter. After all, it will soon be the start of new semester too.

Below I listed 5 “resolutions” to consider for you chapters

1. Improve recruitment: Recruitment is an important part to every chapter’s existence. While I am a firm believer of quality over quantity, most national organizations and universities themselves have chapter minimums. With this in mind, revamp recruitment, so you can show Potential New Members the best version of your chapter and to ensure you are in goo standing.

2. Increase Marketing: Living in the digital era, marketing, specifically social media marketing is vital to promoting a chapter and making sure you are know on campus. Use the New Year as motivation to ensure that you are constantly marketing your chapter.

3. Plan a New Event: I am not going to sugar coat it, planning events can be  a long, tiring, and tedious process, but it also can be one of the most rewarding things you do. So talk it over, create something new, and work hard to further your name on campus.

4. Reach Out to Your Alumni: Your alumni is your greatest assets, we want to be there for you, so make us feel like we are still important to you. You never know, reaching out to one alumni can lead to more assistance than you ever imagined.

5. Create more sisterhood/brotherhood events: Greek Chapters were founded on the ideals of a united sisterhood/brotherhood. This new year, take the time to foster those relationships! Spend more time together, learn about each other, and most importantly, create those unspeakable bonds that we are privileged to have as members of Greek Life.

The above list are just some general ideas, evaluate your chapter and determine your own. And remember, only you can make your chapter great!