After touring various campuses, choosing Southeastern was a no brainer for me. It’s not too big or too small. It is far from home, but not too far for a weekend trip. Once the summer began, I realized that in two short months, I would begin a new chapter in life by becoming a Lion. I refuse to be the student that flies under the radar over the next four years. In order to get the full college experience, one must be involved. 

During one of my tours on campus, I saw a newspaper and began reading it. I thought to myself, “Hey, I want to write and have my name published.” Now, I am on staff and would not trade the day I got the job for anything. Then, I attended summer orientation. I was amazed by the many tables set up for the organizational browse, signifying that I would never run out of things to be a part of.

While strolling, a girl stopped me in my tracks and asked me if I was interested in joining a sorority. Completely clueless, the girl explained to me the process of Summer Social, Fall Recruitment and Bid Day. It seemed interesting so I thought, “Why not.” Little did I know that it would give me so many opportunities in such a short amount of time.

Outsiders have a stereotypical image of sororities. No, we are not like the characters from “House Bunny.” We do not wear inappropriate costumes and throw outrageous house parties every day. 

We actually try to work together to better ourselves individually and as a whole chapter.  Each sorority follows their own creed, supports a specific philanthropy and holds their members to a higher standard. 

I have only been an initiated member of Phi Mu Alpha Psi for four weeks, but it seems so much longer. I have been given an opportunity to share a bond with a group of girls who share the same passion for making a difference as me. While being in Phi Mu, I made best friends and I know that I will always stay in touch with them even after our four years at Southeastern. 

There are now 105 sisters who would do anything for me on any given day at any given time. Other students do not have that luxury.

Most importantly, I am now involved with the Children Miracle’s Network Hospital, our philanthropy. I participated in “Pie A Phi,” volunteered at “Boo at the Zoo” and cannot wait to continue to support the children.

Some say joining a sorority is paying for friends, but if that was true, I am not paying enough.