At Wilfrid Laurier University, students pride themselves with getting involved.
I decided to rush Greek Life at Laurier and it has honestly changed me for the better.
At first, I questioned why anyone would want to be in a sorority, as I had always seen stereotypical representations of it in the media. I decided to give it a chance and check out both sisterhoods’ information nights and found one that I individually clicked with most.
Now, being in my fourth year, my love has continuously grown for Alpha Omega Sorority and I am thankful for taking on a commitment that has impacted my life in such a positive way.
Being in Greek Life has helped me become a more efficient worker and manage my time better overall. Of course, there is a commitment. Just like any other group or activity on campus investing myself in getting a full sorority experience and going to every activity possible does take up quite a bit of my spare time.
Finishing a paper beforehand or setting specific time blocks to work on assignments so I can fully enjoy a sisterhood retreat really makes all the difference for my marks and for my enjoyment.
Greek Life has also made me realize my own privilege and potential impact. One of the known, but sometimes less popularized elements of Greek Life, is the philanthropy work. This has helped me personally with goal setting, teamwork and proactive thinking.
Finally, and probably most noticeably, my leadership skills have developed through helping fulfill positions such as Pledge Educator, Charity Commissioner, Vice President and President and — next up — Social Chair.
Take a look at the Greek Life organizations, even here at Laurier, where we raise thousands of dollars each year in support of organizations such as Anselma House, a local women’s shelter for those dealing with domestic violence.
Whether it’s groups supporting each other or participating in broader charity events in the community, many hours each month are dedicated to giving back. One of the more simple parts of being in Greek Life is developing a respect for others who have different perspectives, opinions and backgrounds than you do. Each organization has different values and the members have their own personal beliefs, but at the end of the day everyone becomes united as a whole group. There are so many people I would have never met if I had not rushed.
Finally, and probably most noticeably, my leadership skills have developed through helping fulfill positions such as Pledge Educator, Charity Commissioner, Vice President and President and next up Social Chair.
Being in a professional role to meet with venue managers or the Dean of Students to talk about support on campus, execute events of all sizes, managing a team, running election periods and even doing clothing orders: all of these experiences give me so many talking points in job interviews.
It is unbelievable how much effort is put into running an organization. Each experience I have contributes to who I am and how I want to act in my community.
You gather experiences that inform your person in an unlimited amount of ways, but Greek Life has been an opportunity for me to put all my passions into developing my skills through one sisterhood that I care for with all my heart.
- Originally posted by The Cord on March 7, 2018