Not Your Average Girl
If I were to tell you that sorority life is nothing like how it is in the movies, would you believe me? Big houses, pretty girls, loud singing, pillow fights, and sleepovers are not exactly what life as a sorority girl consists of. Although if you ask me, that stereotype doesn’t sound too bad ;)
I would be lying if I said we don’t love a good party, but to play hard, we have to work hard! Contrary to popular belief, academics matter. A lot. It is required for sorority girls to maintain a certain GPA in order to be in good standing with the chapter. We value our studies, and if one girl is falling behind, we don’t take it lightly. We make sure that a member gets access to the resources she needs, and we make it our goal to support one another and lift each other up in the process.
Notice how I keep saying ‘we’? That’s because women from all over the country come together and almost immediately work as a team. Not only do we focus on bettering ourselves and our sisters, but we also extend an extra hand to others in need. Sororities continually host and participate in charitable events throughout the year. Our main goal is to raise money for our national philanthropies and, in doing so, make a real difference. Most organizations focus on a few specific charities, but ultimately, they decide to choose their cause.
Speaking of important matters, this year, many organizations have implemented Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion chairs to their chapters. For many years, Greek life has attracted a particular group of individuals. With the rising awareness of inequalities and lack of diversity, we are making it a priority to implement change. I can’t speak for all chapters, but our goal is to educate our members on the benefits of diversity and the importance of advocating for others.
As educated women, we tackle many different fields ranging from the latest fashion trends to human rights issues and beyond. We are smart, we are strong, and we are generous. Everyone has something to bring to the table, and I am so grateful to be surrounded by so many amazing women.
A sorority opens many doors, and sharing an immediate bond with a stranger comes so easily with just a few Greek Letters that hold a special place. There is a high sense of pride to be able to “wear your letters.” In other words, represent the high ideals of what it means to be a member of your chapter and the legacy you may have left behind.
Being a part of a sorority has taught me more lessons than I could have thought imaginable. You learn what it means to be a part of something bigger than yourself, how to give back, how to be professional, how to make valuable connections with others, and as cliche, as it sounds, make memories to last a lifetime.
Despite all the stereotypes surrounding sorority girls, there is something exceptional about the bond each woman holds and cherishes throughout her life. The movies don’t always positively portray our lifestyle, but if I had a say in it, I could confidently say sorority girls “live happily ever after.”
Jayne Levine, President of Alpha Epsilon Phi-Sigma Chapter
University of Wisconsin-Madison Class of 2023