OK, I am never asked, but when I hear parents and their high school daughters talking about college sororities, I insinuate myself into the conversation and get pushy about making sure that the daughters plan to go through recruitment.
Why?
Because sorority membership sets up a support system for life.
The collegiate years - There is a lot of ready information about how a sorority makes these four years a happier experience, with enthusiastic assistance offered in scholarly pursuits, leadership opportunities, philanthropic traditions and social activities. All right, side-bar: Yes, I know that lots of people picture “Animal House” when they think of the Greek system. Aside from being a grotesque characterization of sorority life, do you really think there are no questionable choices made in dorms or apartments? But I digress…
The lengthy “after collegiate years” time span - This is when the benefits of sorority membership really kick in, in a manner not found in any other type of organization - this is what propels me to forcefully encourage daughters to sign up for recruitment. Fast forward 15 years - where will our daughters be? Transferred across the country? Looking for a new job? Running a campaign? Dealing with a family issue?
NPC sororities have alum clubs, world wide, cheerfully offering: advice - local business referrals - graduate scholarships - employment networking - and most importantly, a guaranteed comfort zone of sincere friendship. Having moved to five different states since I graduated from college (or as half the country says, “graduated college”), I can report that the transitions were easier, happier, and more productive because of the sorority alums in each new location.
So, back on my soapbox: as a parent, I wouldn’t feel like I was doing my job if I didn’t set up a situation for my child that would insure this life-time of sisterly support. That means I simply couldn’t imagine my daughter - or anybody else’s - not going through sorority recruitment.
