Tips For Rush From Two Heads Of Recruitment
Sorority Recruitment: We’ve all heard of it, some have experienced it, and a select few have been the heart and brains behind planning it. As a new year at college starts … in person I might add… the cycle of rush begins again!
As someone who has gone through recruitment myself, not only as a freshman eagerly trying to join a sorority—but as an executive member of my sorority today learning about how to recruit in person— I know how important this process is.
My experience, like most, was difficult. I was torn between two houses. One felt comfortable and like home. I was a legacy in the house and for my whole life was told the endless stories of my mom and her friends having the time of their life. The other house was the opposite of this house: There I was thrusted into a place with girls completely different from me, where I was excited at the prospect of reinventing myself. Throughout the process, their rush approaches were far from comparable: One house utilized comfort to gain my trust and adoration, and the other used mockery to convince me their house was more elite than my other choice.
Which did you think I went with?
The answer was clear to me: I was going to follow in my mother’s footsteps, not because it was HER house, but because I felt the most at home there.
Everyone’s sorority rush experience is unique. To get a better perspective on why rush is so important and tips and advice on how to go about it, I sat down with two heads of recruitment.
HOW DO I DIFFERENTIATE MYSELF FROM OTHER PNMS?
Stay true to yourself. Sharing your personal likes, interests, and how you’ve gotten involved are examples of things that can help paint a picture of the kind of great person you are!
WHY ARE SOME PNMS CUT FIRST ROUND?
First round helps PNMs to get a first impression of each chapter and vice versa. One chapter might not seem to be the right match for you, but another chapter might be exactly what you’re looking for!
HOW DO I STAND OUT IF MY RUSH IS REMOTE?
If your rush is remote, try to act like you normally would in person. Even though it might feel weird to chat virtually, try to focus on the value of your conversation. Most importantly, smile!!!!
WHAT IS YOUR NUMBER 1 TIP WITH CONVERSATION DOS/DONTS?
One tip for conversation DO’s is to keep the conversation natural. It’s overwhelming across the board during recruitment but try to relax and focus on showing all the special aspects of what makes you, YOU!
HOW DO I KNOW IF A HOUSE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Pay attention to that chapter’s values and what they prioritize. Maybe a story from an active member might hit home with a PNM who really relates to it. Keep a positive mindset and try to be optimistic about the entire recruitment experience!
Written by Juliette Cohen, University of Wisconsin ‘23