Sorority life gives student new outlook

By Ashley Ritchie

When people hear the term "sorority" a few words and images may come to mind: hyper girls running around like coked-up cheerleaders, vanity and choosing mixers instead of mathematics.

Yet, I have come to set the record straight and tell you what exactly these groups of girls are all about and just in time for the infamous event of winter rush.

Last Spring when I was deciding on whether or not I wanted to participate in rush, I was hesitant. I did not want to be seen as the "typical" sorority girl who was not into anything but guys, social events and guys. However, when I finally decided to take the big plunge into the Greek pool I found something much different than I had anticipated.

When I first arrived at both of the houses (Alpha Phi and Delta Gamma) I was pleasantly surprised to see that the women were all quite different. For the most part, there was not one distinct type of girl that represented the entire sorority just as there was not one personality that spoke for them all. When I learned this, I knew immediately that it was something I wanted to be a part of.

Now I am here a year later in the midst of rush week, with two midterms and two papers due, as well as rush every night, asking myself "was this the right decision"? Was becoming an Alpha Phi something that has benefited my life in the past year?

I can answer with a definite, "Yes!"

Since I became an Alpha Phi last year, my life has taken a dramatic turn, but for the better. I know that this sounds clich�, but I am dumbfounded by the truly amazing friendships I have made with truly amazing girls. In my sorority I have found a place I can turn to no matter what my problem may be, because chances are, someone has been through a similar situation. I have seen the way that these spectacular girls have been the confidants and dearest companions to others who have experienced tragic deaths in their families or may just be having a bad day. No matter what, there is always someone there for you.

Throughout the past few years, the Zeta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi has been the No. 1 collegiate donating chapter in the country with thousands of dollars going toward heart projects for people all over the United States. Whoever says that these sororities are only about date events and silly girls is sadly mistaken.

And, despite the fact that I was not able to begin studying until 12:30 a.m. Tuesday night for my midterm on Wednesday, because I was doing "rush stuff," I find myself not being bothered by it. Yes, it is kind of a drag getting home so late for one week out of the year. But, if that is what it takes to show younger women how wonderful being a part of a sorortity is, then I am more than willing.

I know that the past couple of years at Santa Clara University have not been so successful for the longevity of the Greek system, but I am thankful that they have stuck it out and remained an organization. For those of you who are skeptical of these "sorority girls" I assure you that the ladies of Alpha Phi and Delta Gamma are anything but shallow. These are the women who will take care of your sick children someday, who will be broadcasting the nightly news, and who will be representing your rights as an American citizen. So, the next time you are too quick to judge these people you believe to be 'popularity seekers' just remember that you could and probably will be counting on them someday.