 By: Isabel Tansey- Alpha Phi
Being part of a sorority is an adventure in itself. It is something you have to be part of to truly understand, and one of the most rewarding experiences in a lot of different ways! It’s being part of a community, a sisterhood, gaining invaluable networking and leadership opportunities and so much more. It’s also a really big commitment, and time management is something I’ve had to master in order to fully immerse myself in being part of such a great organization. Being able to efficiently manage your time is an irreplaceable skill in university, especially for when you get into the real world. Balancing a full course load and doing well, having a social life, sorority commitments, volunteering, working, and taking care of yourself at the same time is a LOT for just about anyone, but I promise it can be done. I’m still learning every day how to be more efficient and manage my time better, but I do have some tricks that have helped me a lot this year in balancing a super busy life and of course, having fun at the same time. 1. Write it down. Be organized. Classes have officially started, and you’ve gotten all of your class syllabi. Write every date down! This is the one of the first things I always do, every exam, due date, tutorial times etc. need to be in your calendar. Sorority’s are really organized when it comes to scheduling, we always have the whole month laid out in advance, so put those dates in as well! Sometimes things pop up, but if you have been organized up until then, you can always figure out a way to work around it. Procrastination is your worst nightmare when you have a busy schedule, so as soon as you can get something crossed off your list... do it! 2. To do’s vs. Must do’s. I don’t know if anyone likes making lists as much as I do, but I’m a bit of a freak that way. I have lists for everything, including every class, as well as a general “To do” list for other things. If you want to be a master of time management, you have to learn how to prioritize! Put your number one priorities on your “Must do” list, and get it done right away. Set achievable goals for each day, so you can feel accomplished. Sometimes you have to sacrifice going to the sisterhood in order to get that lab assignment done, and that is OKAY. School ultimately comes first, but once you start getting better at prioritizing, you should be able to come out to as much as you can. If you’re like me, you don’t like missing out, so I always made sure my schoolwork was done early so I could make the most of my time with the girls, and going to all the fun Greek events. 3. You come first. Take care of yourself. University is overwhelming. Sometimes you feel like you’re too busy to breathe, but that’s when you take a step back and make a plan. I find exercising is a really good way to get back into routine! Self-care is essentially doing the things you need to get done in order to take any weight off your back. It’s crossing those things off your list, as well as making time for the people that matter the most. The best thing about being in a sorority is the group of amazing girls you have at all times. It is the best support system in the world. Having a bad day? Grab lunch with a sister. Need some motivation? Find a study buddy in the library… there is always someone there with a table! Even if it is finding someone to drag you to the gym, you will always have someone there for you. When I joined a sorority, everyone told me you get out what you put in, which I completely understand now! My first year I applied for an exec position, which I ended up getting to my surprise and was completely overwhelmed with how much busier my life got. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The girls you meet during recruitment become family, your ultimate support system and your best friends. No matter how busy your life gets, always put yourself out there, work hard and it will be one of the best decisions you ever made!
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 By: Paulina Hart - Alpha Omicron Pi
Deciding to go through formal recruitment in the fall can be a big decision and there are a lot of things to keep in mind throughout the process. Being a legacy, you may feel additional pressure from your family, in addition to the worry of feeling that you won’t get the same recruitment experience as everyone else. A legacy is a member who has immediate family in a sorority. It can be your mother, sister or grandmother. If you join the same sorority, then you will be considered a legacy. As a legacy who went through formal recruitment in the fall of my first year at Western, here are my tips to optimize your experience in recruitment and the sorority of your choice. Tips for Legacies During Recruitment: 1. Stay Open-Minded! It can be difficult to have one particular sorority in mind because of your family. Whether they have raved to you about that sorority or not, you will automatically have it in mind. It is important to remember that every sorority is so different. Each sorority has different key values and activities that they are involved with. Additionally, they each have their own unique philanthropy; their own charity/cause they hold events for. Some sororities are more crafty, some take part in more social events, and some are more focused on their philanthropy and volunteering. It is important to remember that you are different than who you are a legacy to and their sorority may not be the best fit for you and that is totally ok! 2. Avoid Showing an Obvious Preference to One Sorority During formal recruitment, it is important to have great conversations and present yourself with your best foot forward. During recruitment, every sorority wants members who are interested in their sorority. Avoid talking about other sororities when visiting a different one. My advice would be to avoid saying that you are a legacy. To other sororities this may come across as uninterested, which you do not want! Even if you are set on one sorority, keep your options open during recruitment and don’t limit yourself. 3. Make Your Own Impression When visiting the sorority that you are a legacy to, they will know that you are a legacy, but it is still important to talk about yourself and ask questions. No two people’s experiences in the sorority will be the same, it is important to ask questions to make sure to find the best fit for yourself. If the fact that you are a legacy to that sorority gets brought up, make sure to still talk about yourself so that they can get to know you for who you are! Things to Remember: 1. It is still important to make yourself memorable to each sorority that you tour. I did this by making sure I wore outfits that would make myself stick out… in a good way! For the second day of recruitment, I wore a yellow dress that people still remember and talk to me about! 2. Just because you are a legacy, doesn’t mean you will automatically get a bid. You still have to show interest and meet the criteria that they are looking for. It is important to have the minimum grades and come across as your best self. Remember to tell them about your cool summer experiences, your involvement in high school or thus far in university, brag about yourself a bit! 3. Ask questions and learn for yourself. Sororities can change overtime and it is important to learn and make judgements of each sorority yourself and not based off of the information that you hear from others. At the end of each day of recruitment, ranking the sororities can be very difficult but it is very important to rank them accurately and from your own experience. By: Zoé Hlady- Kappa Alpha Theta  People ask me all of the time about how I balanced Varsity athletics with Greek life and academics this year, often they ask for advice, and I never really know what to tell them because there is no concrete system or layout to how I manage my time that I can describe to them. I think what it comes down to is what you care about and what you love to do.
Personally, I’m someone who wants to do everything all at once, and I have trouble giving things up, so between a full course load, five varsity practices a week, and spending time with my sisters, I am stretched very thin, I won’t lie about that. But each of the things that I have chosen to take on are so important to me, so the time commitments don’t matter. There is always a way to make things work. It comes with drawbacks, I will get stressed out over games or over exams, and the lack of time for myself during exam periods, but the beauty of being part of a family of girls is that we love each other and we are there for each other, and that makes it so much easier. It is stressful, and it is time consuming, but your sisters make it worth it. These girls, they make you want to make time to come out to an event on an evening the night before you have a morning practice the next day. One of my very first games, I would say about ten of my girls came out to watch and cheer me on, and many of them went straight to an event right after, but they made the time to come and support me beforehand. One of them, whom at that point I hardly knew, came over afterwards, after she had already gone home across campus, brought snacks and tissues, and listened to me vent and comfort me when I was upset about the outcome and circumstances of that same game. She’s since become my Big, I’m living with her, and I love that girl with my whole heart. I’m grateful for the experience I’ve had having to manage my time between sorority life and athletics. I’ve learned that while there are only 24 hours in the day, and that time is scarce and valuable, it is possible to make time for the things that matter the most. At the beginning of my new member experience, I doubted myself. I didn’t think there I would have enough time to give 100% to all of the different things I was doing at the time, but I spoke with one of our senior sisters and she helped me work out how to manage my time in a way that would benefit all areas of my life. Time management is key, not just now, but in the future after we graduate and go off into our respective fields, time management is very likely going to be a major factor in many of our successes. So in taking on too much, and not wanting to falter in anything, you learn to allot time to things, to multitask, you learn how you can be the most efficient in your studies, how you can incorporate physical excellence into your personal time, and various other tools that will help you to achieve your goals, whether it be academic or athletic, or philanthropic. It all comes down to what works best for you, and figuring out how to fill your schedule to make everything fit. And when you get too stressed out, or you need help with an assignment, or a workout buddy, your sisters are there. To anyone who is having doubts about participating in Varsity Athletics as well as Greek life, I would say that if those things are important to you, you have the ability to make time. And it is completely worth it, because not only do you get to do everything that you love, and with who you love, but it teaches you how to function on a higher level, and that is a lesson which I consider to be invaluable. So I would say do it. Jump in head first, because you are more than capable, and even if you do fall, your sisters will be there to catch you.
2. Everyone is nervous, push yourself to get out of your comfort zone!
"You have to pick the places you don't walk away from." The first vivid memory I have at Western is walking up UC Hill alone. I was nervous, I had come to Western with a group of friends but sought to branch out into Greek Life. I didn’t know anyone going through recruitment and as I walked up that hill alone I remember thinking I could easily walk back to my dorm and hang out with my friends. I am now in my third year and I meet girls who went through recruitment in second and third year because they were too nervous to do it first and the one consistent comment they make is "I can't believe I didn’t do it sooner." Whether in first, second, third, or fourth year, just remember that all the ladies you have yet to meet were in your footsteps at one point! Step out of your comfort zone and you definitely won't regret it. It's never too early or too late, but making the decision to push yourself is a rewarding one.
3. Smile! Smile! Smile!
Be positive! Don't be too cool to talk to people whether they are girls who are going through recruitment as well or the ladies you will be meeting in each house. Engage in all positive conversations and start them because you never know who you might meet! Don't be 'too cool for it,' set the tone by putting your best self forward. 4. Leave your stereotypes at the door! Be open minded! Through the recruitment process it will be fascinating to meet all kinds of girls, some that you expected and others that will surprise you for the better! Don't let misconceptions rule your recruitment process! Be kind and make meaningful conversation with everyone. Going into each house with an open mind will help you with this! Ignore house reputations or what your friends are saying and choose the one that is best for you. Listen to your gut and heart! 5. Talk yourself up! We want to hear about how great you are because we are going to do the exact same in return! If you're shy this is a great time to come out of your shell. Not only do you meet many people while rushing but it also teaches you valuable life skills in terms of being able to sell yourself in 30 seconds and being able to talk to everyone.
6. HAVE FUN
This is a great opportunity to meet new people and develop valuable communication skills. The women I have had the chance to meet are some of the smartest, kindest and well-rounded women I have ever met and I am so lucky to call them my Panhel and sorority sisters! Embrace the experience and enjoy every moment!
Tip Number 1: Keep it Classy
It is human nature to judge someone based off of an appearance! Girls in the houses want to see that you would represent their sorority well. Make sure to be yourself and show off your personality while shying away from wearing low cut tops, short shorts and clubbing dresses because it will distract from what you have to say. Remember: classy over sexy! Examples of clothing include dresses and skirts at respectable lengths along with tasteful tops. Here are a few examples of options! Your Rho Gamma (Recruitment Counsellor) and the rest of the Panhellenic team will also be there to help with any outfit questions you may have.
Tip Number 2: Stand Out
Girls in each house meet so many Potential New Members throughout the day and it can often be difficult to remember who is walking into their sorority. You can never go wrong with a statement piece that helps you be remembered. Examples include a cool/unique jacket, a nice pair of glasses, scarf, shoes, accessories etc. You can stand out while still looking polished.
Tip Number 3: Be Yourself!
Don't feel like there is a mold that has to be fit; this is about showing off your personality and finding the right house for you! Wear a unique/quirky romper or nice shorts that emulate your personality if dresses make you uncomfortable. Tweak things around to fit your personal style! Confidence and comfortability is key to being yourself and is always noticed! If you feel awkward it will show. When in doubt stick to a basic skater or sheath dress and let your personality do the talking.
Tip Number 4: Have Fun!
Formal Recruitment is such a fun weekend! It's natural to be nervous but don't let your nerves take away from such a great experience. Mix and match styles to the best of your ability, and make sure to show your true colours. Outfits along with your own personality will shine a light on the person that you are. A key tip to relieve stress would be to plan out outfits for each day in advance! Nevertheless, enjoy a weekend of meeting many girls that will soon be your potential sisters/ Panhellenic sisters!
Specific Day by Day Outfit Planner:
Day 1: Business Casual Day 2: Business Casual (a bit more fancy) Day 3 (Preference Night): The most fancy - think nice dresses, cute skirt-blouse duo, or a rockin' pant suit!  The time of year has come where we must say goodbye to our very special graduating seniors. These influential women have all made their mark on the Greek community and their individual Chapters in their own unique ways. Taking on a leadership position can be a fulfilling part of your Greek life adventure and these past Presidents have a few words of wisdom for Potential New Members!
It’s everyone’s favourite time of the year. Tuesday nights with friends are replaced with all night study sessions in Weldon. Joggers take the place of your jeans and sweatpants replace your pin attire. Spoke bagels become your new religion. It’s easy to get caught up in the madness of #finalsszn so check out the following tips to stay healthy over the next few weeks: Physical Health
 @agduwo Mental Health
Good2Talk 1-866-925-5454 Mental Health Helpline 1-866-531-2600  @uwotheta Extra Study Tip
 @aoiiwesternu Recruitment is in full effect and that means it’s officially time to “GO GREEK” and time to start convincing your gal pal, your roommate, your lab partner, and your neighbours third cousin to RUSH! For most people who don’t really know much about being greek the common easy reply is “it’s just not for me”, but they couldn’t be more wrong. This is a message for anyone who believes that they don’t belong in the Greek community. This is for the girls that don’t like pink or glitter or being best friends with 50 other girls. (C'mon who wouldn’t like that?)  People who believe that the Greek life isn’t for them seem to have this preconceived notion of what it entails. It’s easy to think that sororities are just made up of girls of the exact same “type” (and we all know the cliches). It begins with the stereotype of what a “sorority girl” should be - preppy, stylish, crafty, and girly. As a “sorority girl” myself I can easily say this opinion is so wrong A sorority girl can be anyone. In fact, the not-so-sorority girl is the perfect candidate to Go Greek. She offers new perspectives, alternative passions and an authentic love for the organization itself. She is able to break that stereotype of what the Greek life seems to be on the outside and open it up to more of her kind. Going Greek doesn’t require you to be a certain “type” but instead it celebrates all your quirks and ambitions that make you, you. In a sorority there is always a place for everyone: the girl who loves computers and design makes the best media chair and can bring new ideas to the table, the girl who’s only friends with guys makes the best fraternity social chair, the girl who’s only passion is helping others makes the best philanthropy chair. It’s a common push and pull - when you’re saying you won’t fit in, we’re saying that you’re perfect.  Going Greek may be the best decision of your life and the only thing holding you back from obtaining that amazing experience is you. Going Greek is the first step of gaining those opportunities to grow as an individual and attain those connections you’ll have for a lifetime. It’s a chance for you to become who you want to be and continue to grow with girls who are always there to love and support you. In your mind you can still probably think of a million reasons as to why you shouldn’t Go Greek but compared to the benefits and all the possibilities, do those reasons even matter anymore? There is no doubt in my mind that at the end of the day, you will be calling UWO Sororities your home! AND it all starts with signing up for recruitment and who knows you might even surprise yourself.  Joining a sorority can be a tough decision -It can sometimes be a "I have no idea what to expect" scenario. With that said, prepping for recruitment can be super stressful and nerve wracking if you have no idea how it's going to go. So, UWO Sororities has gathered some tips and tricks to help make your sorority recruitment weekend as successful and fun as possible.  To Potential New Members (PNM'S) of UWO Sororities 1) Be yourself. Don't stray away from showing your true personality and missing the opportunity to find the sorority that fits best with who you are. 2) Go into recruitment with an open mind. Don't go into it being set on one sorority. You need to give every sorority a fair chance to show you what they have to offer. 3) First impressions are EVERYTHING. Smile, enjoy yourself and dress in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable throughout the weekend. 4) Don’t listen to anything you’ve heard about the other sororities on your campus. People will talk and tell you the reputations each sorority holds but try to block those out and form your own opinions. 5) Don't be afraid to eat or drink during each party! Take advantage of the cute snacks and drinks made by each chapter. Trust me ... no one is going to judge for indulging in a cupcake.  6) Make sure you talk with everyone! Even if you make friends with someone who is interested in another sorority don't box them out ... I mean where do you think #panhellove comes from? 7) Keep in contact with your Rho Gammas. Your Rho Gammas (recruitment counsellors) are there to make your recruitment process easier. Make sure to ask them questions throughout the weekend ... they've been through it before and can give some killer advice. 8) Make friends within your given PNM group. The girls in your group are there to make you feel more relaxed and comfortable with the process. They're always there to talk to and you can relate easily to them because they're going through the same thing. 9) Trust the system. You may go in thinking you’ve found your home on day 1, but you might not get called back. Don’t let that shatter your hope. Just stay hopeful, stay strong and everything will make sense when you’re accepted to your forever home on Bid Day! 10) You can never be too overdressed. The recruitment process is a perfect way to show off your own personal style by adding accessories or bold pieces.  11) Don’t be nervous to ask real questions. This is the only way that you can really learn which house is the right fit for you. All the girls will be more than happy to answer anything you have on your mind. 12) Keep on top of your studies. Make sure you don't fall behind. The recruitment process is a full weekend of sorority parties ... which will 100% drain you by the end of the day. Just make sure you don't add any extra stress that could of been prevented. 13) Stay rested. Recruitment days are long and can be quite exhausting when you have to engage and talk to girls 24/7. 14) Follow your gut and trust your instincts. At the end of recruitment take your time when deciding which sorority you honestly see yourself being in. It should feel natural and right when you pick the sorority of your choice. 15) Take good notes and remember key conversations! Recruitment parties can go by very quickly, and at the end of the day conversations can blur into one another. By taking notes after each party, you will be able to remember all of your amazing experiences at each house. 16) Don't be disappointed if things don't work out. Recruitment is all about trying to find your best match, even if you don't see it at first. 17) Have fun. Just enjoy the experience and see where Western Sororities takes you. Remember that recruitment is meant to be fun, not stressful. Keep in mind that the girls you are talking to may soon be your best friends and family forever.  |
