How to Survive Sorority Initiation

You can survive a sorority initiation and it really isn't as bad as some may think. Today most all sororities at major universities operate under the guidelines of the Panhellenic Council and are watched very closely. Much of what goes on is actually based on tradition and wanting to keep the "sisterhood" legacy continuing from one generation to the next.

Instructions

1. Ask a current member or older sibling that went through the Greek system to fill you in on what your particular sorority considers for their initiation. Remember that you chose to "go Greek." As of the Rush Week, when new pledges are offered an invitation to "Bid" with that particular sorority, you are assigned a Big Sis. This Big Sis has spent a lot of time getting ready for you to become a future "Pledge" so she is really out for your best interest. She wants you to love this as much as she does. She, the Big Sis, is an excellent person to confide in if you are nervous.

2. Use your time wisely during initiation and all the Greek activities. Many new pledges are just barely adjusting to living on their own, being in a dorm, attending college and balancing their own budget. This is something they usually really want, but it also creates a great deal of stress issues related to time. So, know that this will take a great deal of your time, although most members feel that these years they spent with their sorority sisters were some of the best in their life.

3. Follow the rules and guidelines given to you for Greek week, Rush, Bid Day and Initiation. Usually sororities are very organized. They have elected officers and committees that work for an entire year to plan the next year's Greek Week and Rush. There is almost always a very detailed schedule, so just do as you are asked, be on time, park where you are asked to park, attend the chapter meetings and enjoy it. It is a very social time in your life. These "rules" will help you the rest of your life. Many former sorority members go throughout their lives after college and continue to be involved and have learned to juggle many different things at once. In many cases, you are working hard and making friends that will last a lifetime.

4. Join in the activities by participating and by volunteering. College is a life experience that many people dream of. Being able to be a part of an active sorority just adds to it. The social work you are asked to participate in might end up being what you choose to do as a career. By joining in you are not only going to meet many new people, but you are learning "social skills." Some laugh, but these social skills developed in college sororities will stick with you through your adult life, careers and outlook on life in general.

Tips & Warnings

• Enjoy yourself and have fun.

• The days of sorority hazing during initiation are all in the past. However, should you ever run into a situation where you are expected to do something that would harm yourself, someone else or is illegal, you need to contact the Panhellenic Council immediately and the appropriate authorities for the college or university you are attending.