| A
look inside sorority life
By Shaelee Barker
May 7, 2009 | When most people think of sorority girls,
the thoughts of short skirts, parties, and hunky frat
boys cross the mind, but what most people do not realize
is that sororities are so much more than what meets
the eye.
Sorority life is a way for women across the country
to be involved in a national organization that fosters
leadership opportunities, academic success, community
service, and personal development.
Amanda Clyde, president of Kappa Delta at Utah State,
said she first wanted to join a sorority because she
was extensively involved in high school and "wanted
to get involved at a collegiate level."
The leadership opportunities available through involvement
in a sorority are considerably high and teach real-life
skills and lessons. Not only do sororities plan annual
fundraising and charity events, but "the appointed positions
such as president, accountant, public relations officer,
and membership director allow you to really act and
feel like an adult," said Lindi Lehnhausen, senior sorority
member at Utah State.
To even be eligible to pledge to a sorority, both
Kappa Delta and Alpha Chi Omega require that each potential
new member must have a high school grade point average
of at least a 3.0. Both houses at Utah State require
that "mandatory study hours are completed based on your
college grades," says Lehnhausen.
"Being involved in a sorority has helped me out tremendously
academically. I know that if I don't do well in school
I can't be a part of Kappa Delta and that is motivation
enough to make sure I do as best I can," said Clyde.
Not only do sororities promote individual members,
but they also give back to the community on a continual
basis. "Every month we do a community service event.
Whether it is helping out the Girls Scouts, volunteering
for a local event, or hosting a benefit dance, we make
sure we give back," said Clyde.
One of the main benefits sorority involvement offers
is the personal growth one gains from membership. The
Kappa Delta open motto is: "Let us strive for that which
is honorable, beautiful, and highest," said Clyde.
"Being involved in a sorority means that you are constantly
doing workshops, volunteering, and being around girls
who want to make themselves better, stronger women.
We really have a fantastic support system I feel is
a force for good," said Lehnhausen.
Networking possibilities and involvement after the
college level mean that "once you are a sister, you
are always a sister," said Lehnhausen. Clyde agreed
that she feels better about life after college because
of her Greek association.
"I know Kappa Delta will give me my first job. It's
not just because of the name, but what the name means.
Being Greek means I am a leader and a strong woman who
is motivated and serves," said Clyde.
Both Clyde and Lehnhausen agree that although there
is a negative stereotype linked with sorority involvement,
the membership is worth the drama. "We have our own
culture anyway and we know what we are doing is right,
even if people don't take the time to notice," said
Lehnhausen.
"Being a member of a sorority is one of the greatest
experiences college women can participate in. Sorority
life provides thousands of philanthropic opportunities.
Members not only serve their national philanthropies,
but actively volunteer in their local community and
campus. I wish more people took the time to notice all
the great we do," said Clyde.
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