So I met with an young women yesterday who just joined the Greek community, and based on recent conversations with other new members in her class, she is not sure if Greek Life is for her. She was teary-eyed when I spoke with her, and she was conflicted on what she should do. She thought she was joining a community that was committed to service, academics, and who valued quality friendship. I tried to share with her that many of us face the same challenge and how she is exactly the kind of member that we want in our community, but I am not sure if that is enough. I only met with this individual for an hour, and I could already see her as the President of her respective chapter or even council. But how do we keep her apart of the community? These are the individuals that we need more of... So anyone have any ideas of what might keep her around???
I tried to explain how she could make a difference in our community, and that the ultimate goal is to recruit members that just do not perceive the drinking aspects of Greek Life. I guess that when you see again that we need to start with our recruitment. Recruit for quality not quantity!
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I would say that you just have to remind people that you get out of greek life what you put into it. Partying is only the side that people see most often, not the side that truly represents what we do.
ReplyDeleteIf you aren't joining to become an avid alcoholic, then you don't have to pay attention to those seemingly rampant aspects. Being greek is so much more than that. I'm sure it differs per chapter, but that's why she can look around and find the chapter that best suits her - the one that participates in community service projects that appeal to her the most. If she's looking for service, sisterhood, and academics, I'm sure she'll be able to find it. Just remind her that greek life is so much more than parties - even if you can't tell from the outside looking in. If the chapter she's currently looking at isn't what she's looking for, that is why we have so many different OPTIONS on our campus, so that everyone can find a good fit! :]
Hi Julie!
ReplyDeleteFirst thing, I sat next to our girl Nadia during our Order Of Omega meeting and we came to the consensus that we love you.
Second thing, I think about your dilemma all the time. I know a lot of women who LOVE Greek life and a few who can't tell if its for them or not. Obviously men and women join Greek Life for a number of different reasons. I joined for my own reasons and as did you. When I wasn't sure if it was right for me I also approached an older woman in my house. I think good advice to tell your new member is that its too early to tell if she loves or hates it. I think taking a leadership position in your house would be a great thing for this individual. Not only will it get her involved and get her voice and opinions out in the open but it will also allow her to feel like she is contributing to the chapter.
Lastly, living in the house is a huge step. Once I started to live in my chapter house, I literally fell in love. Don't let her give up yet, its too soon!
Hey Ashley and Sam! Thanks for your comments:)I really liked your suggestions, and I am going to see if she wants to go to lunch later in the week so I can talk to her about these options too! I like how you all said it was too soon for her to tell and that she will have the opportunity to make it all she wants it to be.
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