I'm now going into my 3rd year of university studies and my my first while there has been stressful and lonely. I thought joining some clubs (or sororities) might help get me more support, make more friends, get out more, etc.
I find the concept of sororities a little confusing. What is the difference between joining a regular campus club and a sorority? What are the benefits? DO you recommend it? All in all, is it more beneficial to join a "lifelong" sisterhood or just join a couple of clubs that interest me?
Also, it seems to me that sororities are maybe better for younger girls. I'm 23 and live off-campus on my own--I don't need an older "mentor". And I also don't want to feel pressured to spend time with the same people all the time.
What are your experiences and thoughts? Thanks!
2007-09-03 13:42:32 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
Different campuses vary in the ages of people at the university, and that also means that sorority members are younger at some schools than at others. I would agree that if most of the members at your school are 18 or 19, it might not be appropriate for you, but it might be worthwhile looking into it at your particular school. Sororities usually do have substantial dues, and there is more of a sense of mutual obligation among the members than would be true of other clubs. You could go to two or three meetings of the Spanish Club, and then if you were busy not show up to the next several meetings. That is not true of sororities. In return, there is a stronger sense of belonging and community in the Greek system.
My only concern is that if you have gotten through two years of college and are still feeling isolated and stressed, you may not be social enough to appeal to the sororities themselves. I forgot to mention that while with other clubs you can join at will, even if none of the other members like you, that is not true of Greek organizations. They have to invite you to pledge after you go through Rush.
2007-09-03 14:00:54 · answer #1 · answered by neniaf 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sororities have always confused me a little, but that is mainly because I have seen them at there lows on several occasions.
Basically, this "lifelong sisterhood" you speak of is a bunch of little rich girls, using mommy & daddy's money to buy friends. I know it sounds harsh, but that is honestly how it is on my campus. Sororities have expectations of their members (living together, either on campus or off, attending all meetings, social gatherings, etc), and if they aren't met their are consequences. It is fairly expensive, and costs more than just money..you are going to be giving up a fairly decent sized portion of your life.
Don't get me wrong, sororities are not all bad. If you really want to join one, I urge you to join an academic or honors sorority. They are beneficial and focus more on grades and community service, rather than partying and drama.
Sorry if this seems kind of one sided, but I have seen too many of my friends enter into the sorority life only to fail out or get kicked out of school. On the other hand, I have friends in honors sororities that are thriving, and I am looking into an academic one currently.
My advice to you is to steer clear of social sororities, but look into other clubs, or even academic sororities.
Good luck!
2007-09-03 23:08:57 · answer #2 · answered by tlkrgrlz 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I'm sure it is confusing - believe it or not there's help out there if you are looking for it. HowStuffWorks recently did a piece on Sororities ... and a few weeks later one on Fraternities. Hope it helps!
http://people.howstuffworks.com/sorority.htm
http://people.howstuffworks.com/fraternity.htm
2007-09-03 21:09:09 · answer #3 · answered by starexplorer 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋