Growing up, I have always been somewhat shy, finding it difficult to make friends and hesitant to participate in various events and clubs. Upon enrolling in college, joining a sorority became a deliberate choice. I saw it as an opportunity to break out of my shell, engage with my community, and forge friendships.
Admittedly, I didn’t do it my freshman year. I was intimidated by the idea of sorority life, fearing judgment and doubting whether I fit the typical sorority girl image. With just a few close friends and my inherent shyness, the idea of joining was so scary to me.
However, by my sophomore year, I decided to try it out. I mustered the courage to participate in recruitment. It took a lot of strength to navigate through the process despite my apprehensions, especially amidst the perceived judgment of other girls. Yet, as I talked with different sororities throughout the day, I began to feel more at ease. Learning that even current sorority members shared similar nerves during recruitment was reassuring. It made me realize that perhaps I wasn’t as out of place as I had feared.
Receiving a bid and running home to the sorority was another nerve-wracking experience. I found myself among unfamiliar faces, feeling overwhelmed by the new environment. Nevertheless, I pushed through, facing my fears head-on, and ultimately accepted the bid.
After being a member of the sorority for a full semester, I’ve taken on a role in the executive council as the public relations chair. I never would have imagined myself in a sorority at all, let alone in a position of power.
While I still struggle with shyness and occasional apprehension about attending events, I’ve proven to myself that I can overcome my fears. Joining the sorority has been an amazing experience, challenging my misconceptions and allowing me to grow in ways I never thought possible. I also learned that the stereotypes about the typical sorority girl are far from the truth. My sisters have never made me feel judged or stupid for anything.
To the shy girl who has thought about joining a sorority but has been scared of judgment or the process in general, just try it. Each sorority is different, and each sister in a sorority is different, so it is important to find the fit best for you.
You can be accepted for who you are, and your flaws will be embraced because joining a sorority, to me, means unconditional love.
Your sisters will always be there for you in your good times and bad. They will always be willing to talk you through what you are feeling and help ease your mind because we have all been in a position where we have felt vulnerable in our lives.
Let this serve as a reminder that it’s alright to feel scared about something, and it’s okay to not be ready to conquer it. But, to challenge yourself shows great strength. It shows that even though you were afraid, you pushed through. Embrace the unknown. The greatest growth often stems from moments of discomfort and vulnerability.