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Showing posts with label sorority. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sorority. Show all posts

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Why You Should Do Spring Recruitment



So you have survived the first semester or two quarters of college and you can't help but feel a little left out in the social scene. Every day on campus you see groups of girls wearing their letters on cute tees and they look like they're the ultimate besties. You want in but you're just not sure if the "sorority thing" is for you.

Does the above scenario sound like you or someone you know? Well, stop second guessing yourself. Spring Recruitment could quite possibly be the best college decision you make. Here is why:

  1. It's never too late to make new friends. New sisters? EVEN BETTER!
  2. Spring Recruitment is usually less stressful than the first recruitment earlier in the school year because it's less girls going through.
  3. With the whole rest of the school year ahead, there is still time to participate in the fun, warmer activities in the spring like philanthropies and date parties. 
  4. Sick of your dorm room? Find a new place to stay in your sorority house once you complete spring recruitment and get initiated.
  5. You will join just in time to be able to be on the other end of it all as you prepare in the summer to welcome even more sisters with recruitment! Participating in recruitment is the best and most rewarding sorority experience. You could even qualify to be a Recruitment Counselor!
  6. You finally get to wear your letters on a cute tee ;-)
Good luck with Spring Recruitment and if you have any questions, leave us a comment below!

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Gifts For Your Little

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We know that Big/Little Reveal is around the corner for a lot of you ladies so we decided to do a little shopping for you to help you choose the absolute cutest gifts for your Little. For those who don't know what Big/Little Reveal is (or Mom/Dot (Daughter)) it is when an active member gets paired with an initiated member based on best fit. It is common throughout the years of being in your sorority to do functions with your Little and really bond with them. For Big/Little Reveal gifts, it is 100% about personalization, which is why we really loved this Acrylic Block Letter Monogram Necklace from BaubleBar. You can each have matching ones!



Friday, September 25, 2015

TSS Master List of Bid Day Themes 2015/2016

Wow, you guys really outdid yourselves this year with your Bid Day themes. We have loved skimming through our emails and Instagram looking at all of your fun Bid Day themes. You guys have really stepped up the originality since our last Bid Day Themes compilation in 2013. Here at TSS we are all about sharing 'sorority secrets' which is why we asked you earlier this week to share with us your Bid Day themes. The goal is to share the love and give other sororities ideas on how they can theme up their Bid Day. Below were some of our favorite themes that we saw. This year, we linked up the theme with the sorority or sorority girl so you can visually see how they did that theme.
  1. Welcome to Paradise
  2. Welcome to the Big Leagues
  3. Flying First Class
  4. Coachella
  5. Topgun
  6. X Marks the Spot
  7. Draft Day
  8. Aloha
  9. Just Got Brighter
  10. California Dreaming
We want to add to the list! In the comments below, tell us what theme you did and leave your sorority's Instagram handle too!

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

TSS Contest: Most Beautiful Sorority Homes!

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We're on the hunt for our country's most beautiful sorority homes!  There are so many different styles of sorority homes all over the country and we want you to submit your house if you think it deserves to be on our Most Beautiful Sorority Homes list!  We will be selecting our winners next week so submission ends this Sunday!

To Enter Email Us at info@thesororitysecrets.com:
1. high quality photo of the exterior of the house (if you want to include the interior too, that's great, but optional).
2. Your school
3. Your sorority
4. Your chapter's Instagram account to be tagged in

Or you can enter by tagging us in a photo of your house on Instagram!

Submission ends this Sunday, September 27th!  Good luck!

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Why I Went Greek: Shyla Bassey From Delta Sigma Theta


School: Arizona State University
Sorority: Delta
Year You Pledged: Junior
Year Initiated: Spring 2009

What did you hear about sororities before you went through recruitment?

I believe every person has a desire to fulfill a greater purpose in their lives. When I was in high school, I was exposed to many of the NPHC organizations. At that time I did not know much, however I was certainly intrigued to learn more.

What encouraged you to go through recruitment? 

My freshman year on campus was a whirlwind, as for many! I immediately involved myself in numerous organizations on campus to be better acquainted with my new environment. What stood out was the involvement of the women of Delta Sigma Theta. They were small in number but mighty in representation. These women exemplified the way I wanted to be and held themselves to a high academic regard. So, as some wise women shared with me, "Do your research!" meaning, read about all organizations to ensure I know why I am pursuing and what stands out amongst the rest. My research made it even more clear and solidified my decision to pursue such a distinguished Sorority.

Joining Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. was the best decision I've made in my life. Being apart of a bond with such an illustrious history of trailblazing women who have paved the way, so that I can press forward and succeed is priceless.

How did your sorority develop you as a person?

I went Greek because I knew it was in my heart to be apart of a sisterhood of women who carried similar ideals. I wanted to serve a greater purpose in my community, on my Campus and through my daily life. Joining Delta Sigma Theta taught me perseverance, humility, dedication, how to efficiently multitask, run a meeting, organize events, effectively delegate, public speaking, and never to quit even when things go wrong! The lessons learned truly could go on.

If you could go back in time, what would you want to relive in your sorority?

Membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. does not end after college with alumnae chapters all over the world. If I could go back in time and relive my collegiate days, it would simply be spending time with my Chapter Sorors running the yard and hosting events on campus that served the greater need.

Thanks for sharing your sorority experience, Shyla!  If you have questions for Shyla leave them in the comment's section below!

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Roommate Etiquette



Earlier this year we talked about how to survive living with a roommate. But, there's more to elaborate when it comes to living with your sorority sister or college dorm mate. Here are a few pieces of advice to jot down when it comes to living with other women, especially your sisters:

1. Respect each other's schedule (class or work)
2. Don't talk on the phone in the room when your roommate is sleeping
3. Clean up after yourself, especially in the common areas
4. Respect your roommate's space and things
5. If you're going to borrow something, make sure to ask their permission!
6. Deal with problems quickly instead of letting it build up
7. Be respectful when inviting guests over
8. Respect each other's quiet time

All-in-all, it's really important to establish some basic rules before starting your roommate journey.  It will only help you moving ahead and know the dos & dont's!

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Why I Went Greek: Alyssa Conti from Alpha Chi Omega



School: Arizona State University

Sorority: Alpha Chi Omega

Year You Pledged: Freshman

Year Initiated: 2006

What did you hear about sororities before you went through recruitment?

I heard sororities at ASU were all about partying, however, it should be noted that that's the general stereotype about ASU as a whole. People told me I would be "buying my friends."

How much of it was true?

Well, we definitely had our fair share of fun! It was definitely not all about the party though, we participated in a lot of charitable work as well. As far as "buying my friends" .... That's just a silly thing people like to say. I met two of my best friends through AXO.

What encouraged you to go through recruitment?

I can't say that anything in particular encouraged me. I had my mind set from the beginning.

Who was the first person you fell in love with in your house?

A girl named Drew. She was super sweet and funny. I felt instantly comfortable.

Favorite sorority moment?

I can't say there is one particular moment that I would call my favorite. But, I did love the date parties!

If you could go back in time, what would you want to relive in your sorority?

The first moment I met my best friends. It's crazy to think it's been almost 10 years since that time.

Any advice for anyone going through recruitment?

Be yourself and trust your instinct.


Thanks for sharing your sorority experience, Alyssa!  If you have questions for Alyssa leave them in the comment's section below!

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Why I Went Greek: Ugochi Nwaneri From Alpha Kappa Alpha


School: Eastern Michigan University
Sorority: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
Year You Pledged: Junior
Year Initiated: Spring 2015

What did you hear about sororities before you went through recruitment? 

I heard both positive and negative things about sororities. Obviously the positives helped me determine whether or not it was the right fit for me. I heard non appealing things such as "you're paying for fake sisters" "sorority girls party and don't get work done." On the other hand, I also heard "you build life long relationships with your sisters" "sororities participate in a lot of community service" "there are endless opportunities to network" "joining a sorority is a great way to help build your community" ... and the list goes on.


How much of it was true?

I have been fortunate to become a member of a phenomenal sorority of which I have had no negative experiences. I am blessed to be surrounded by likeminded women that achieve their academic goals while balancing extracurriculars, family and rendering service to all man kind.


What encouraged you to go through recruitment? 

After learning about all values of my sorority that are so dear to me, I stayed motivated and encouraged to get through the process. In addition, my play grandmother has been a member of my sorority since 1971. All of her involvement within the sorority as I've seen since the time I've met her not only sparked an interest but was a reminder of the greatness that was yet to come.


Favorite sorority moment?

My favorite sorority moment was the day of my probate. I was so ecstatic for the world to see that my sisters and I are now women of Alpha Kappa Sorority, Incorporated. After we finished exams, our day was spent getting "fleeky" for our show. Sorority sisters that pledged before us traveled to see us. We were surrounded with loving women that helped pave the way for us and who are the epitome of true sisters. I will never forget the day of my probate- singing and marching through campus with our gorgeous green skirts and pretty pink heels.


Any advice for anyone going through recruitment?

My advice for prospective members is to go to events pertaining to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and of course, get to know the members. I would also familiarize yourself with the criteria of becoming a member.

Do you have questions for Ugochi? Leave them in the comments below!

Friday, July 31, 2015

Best Sorority Instagram Contest


It's time for some friendly competition! Instagram has really taken flight over the past few years and now so many people are Instafamous (we can't believe that that is even a word!). We have been loving seeing what all of our sorority readers have been up to all summer via their shared Instagram photos that we want to give you and your house more of a spotlight. From now until August 7th, we want you to prove that your sorority's Instagram page is the best by showing us through pictures how it fits with all six of our site categories: Campus Catwalk (clothes, fashion accessories), Dolled Up (makeup), Big Sis Tips (sisters helping sisters, activities, philanthropy, sisterhood events) Kitchen (cook-offs, exercising, health & wellness), Secret Steals (awesome deals), and Chapter Room (house decor). DM your pictures to us via our Instagram: @thesororitysecrets and the sorority to display the most pictures in all six categories will get a feature on our site. 

Ready...


Set....

 
GO!

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Sorority Recruitment Q&A



Wow, we seriously cannot believe that recruitment is around the corner for so many of you! We have received a lot of personal messages from women eager to learn more about joining a sorority so we decided to provide you all who are interested in going through recruitment with a little Q&A. Find the questions and answers below. If your question wasn't answered, then please leave your question(s) in the comment's section below!

Q: When is sorority recruitment?
A: It all depends on what school you're attending! Typically, recruitment is hosted in the summer time at the beginning of school (few sororities also do it in the spring). Be sure to check your college or university's main website and locate where the sororities are categorized to identify when recruitment is. You can also try to find the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) or National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sites to get that information.

Q: What is the difference between National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and National Panhellenic Conference (NPC)
A: The National Pan-Hellenic Council is comprised of nine of the historically African American, international Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities. These frats and sororities are also collaboratively referred to as the "Divine 9".

The National Panhellenic Conference encompasses 26 (inter)national women's sororities.

Q: What does "pledge" mean?
A: Pledging a sorority means committing to getting to know a particular sorority. Being initiated would make you an official sister/member of that sorority.

Q: How does recruitment work?
A: Depending on what type of sorority you choose to pledge (an NPHC sorority or an NPC sorority) most of the sororities host a formal 3-4 day recruitment process where you get to visit each sorority, talk to the girls, and rank which sororities you would like to learn more about and revisit. Eventually, you narrow it down to 2-3 sororities and you attend an exclusive night with each potential sorority before you make your final decision. The following day, typically called Bid Day, you find out which house wanted you (and you wanted them) It's the best feeling ever.

Q: Should I go through recruitment my Freshman year or my Sophomore year?
A: We can only speak from our experience and say that going through recruitment our Freshman years was the greatest decision we could have ever made. It simplified the struggle to find friends in such a big college world because we already had so many friends to choose from making the memories of our first year in college nothing short of amazing. On the other hand, we know several women who opted to do it their second year in college and they too had a blast gaining new lifelong friends. Ultimately, it's up to you!

Q: Is joining a sorority super expensive?
A: Joining a sorority will certainly cost money to maintain, no different than the monthly payments you make for the other bagillion things you love. There is no amount of money that could pay for the amount of friendships and memories that you will develop during and after your time as a soror. In any case, properly budgeting will make it possible for you to actively participate. Many sororities can also offer you payment plan options so don't let money get in your way of making lifelong friendships.

What other questions and comments do you have about recruitment? Leave your questions in the comments below!

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Secrets To Surviving With a Roommate


Living with a roommate can have its ups and downs, but hopefully more ups for you. We lived with roommates during our sorority house living days and it was a blast. However, there were definitely some challenges that we had to overcome with some of our roomies to make sure that boundaries were not crossed. There is nothing worse than not wanting to return to your living space because you and your roomies aren't getting along. Here are a few tips to help you survive living with a roommate:

  1. Be vocal about your cleanliness. Cleanliness has got to be one of the top subjects to cause a quarrel or misunderstanding between roomies. If you know you're practically messy or practically a clean freak, then meet in the middle and agree to hiring a maid to clean the living space once or twice a month. Cleanliness should not be a major factor in a disruptive living situation.
  2. Declare a chore rotation. If one person starts to take out the trash all of the time, eventually it becomes like their job. If you don't want that to happen then decide on a realistic chore rotation and stick it in a visible spot so there is no confusion as to who is responsible for what.
  3. Always consult each other when it comes to bringing guests over. We can't tell you how many times this has been a problem in living situations because one roomie walked into the space to find a bunch of people she didn't know in the living space. Transparency is the best policy!
  4. If something is bothering you, don't let it fester. Festering your feelings will most definitely lead into a big blow out. Living with another person isn't easy and you will try to get to know each other as you work through inevitable differences. The worst thing you can do is bottle up anything you're feeling about the living situation because a sudden burst of anger can cause a negative ripple effect on both the living situation and possible friendship.
  5. Have a "Roomie Day"! We have come across situations where our roommates had some heavy expectations about living together which included hanging every night. Often times, that does not end up being the case, but you can definitely make time for what you want. To keep the roomie morale up, have a designated day to yourselves. This could be a Bachelor/Bachelorette Monday night rendezvous on the couch or walking the dog in the evening. Anything to keep the morale alive!
What tips do you have about living with a roomie?

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

4 Ways To Kickstart Your Career In College


Who says you can't get a kickstart in the corporate America world while you're in school?! Employers are looking for a lot of things, but most of all is experience. Below are our four (4) ways to kickstart your career in college so you stand out at all the job fairs when the time comes.

First, get an internship! Whether it's during the school period or during summer, intern at a company that is either where you want to work or in the same industry. The best thing about doing this is that you're building rapport. That way, when it's time to transition to a full-time role they'll be more inclined to hire you.

Second, take on leadership roles. Employers want to see that you're a leader and the easiest way to convince them of that is to hold a leadership role in an on campus organization. This will look fab on your rèsumé!

Third, stack up recommendations. Having someone to endorse your skills is so beneficial. Nowadays, the easiest way to have your skills endorsed is through LinkedIn. Sign up for an account and seek those referrals.

Fourth, network with your sorority sisters! Co Founder, Karen did just that to leverage her current medical sales position. Even if you don't have a sorority sister, alumnae are awesome to have because they can teach you skills and coach you for the job you desire.

Good luck!

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Sisters Succeeding: Sharon Bui, Frill Clothing Company



This 'Sisters Succeeding' post is big. Like, Shark Tank BIG.

North Carolina State University Chi Omega, Sharon Bui, partnered up with Kate Steadman to form Frill Clothing Company and now they are scheduled to appear on the television show, Shark Tank, on
March 6​th at 9/8c on ABC!

Shark Tank is a reality television program, which allows aspiring entrepreneurs to make business pitches to a panel of investors. “We are delighted to appear on Shark Tank,” says co founder Sharon Bui, “this is huge for promoting our business and we can’t wait for America to see us pitch our pride and joy to the ‘shark’ investors.

Frill Clothing is a startup clothing company, located in Raleigh, NC. The thought of Frill was first conceived when Sharon Bui, a member of Greek Life at N.C. State University, realized there was no way of buying fashionable clothing she was required to wear for formal sorority recruitment. Bui then joined with Kate Steadman, who was studying advertising with a minor in fashion at Appalachian State, and Frill Clothing was born.

While Frill Clothing is primarily targeted to sorority women who are looking to purchase affordable, yet stylish, outfits for recruitment, there are other items available on their online boutique. Frill is branching out to sell items such as jewelry, home décor, apparel and various accessories.

Frill is also an important member of the bridal community. Their skirts can be purchased for bridal parties to put on a new fashion forward spin on bridesmaid’s dresses. The skirts are stylish, affordable, and can be worn on multiple occasions. Frill has outfitted many wedding parties and the bride, as well as, the bridesmaids have been extremely pleased with the end result.

Bui and Steadman launched Frill while both were still earning their degrees, which have required a lot of hard work, and learning how to be financially resourceful. “The past couple of years we have learned what it takes to be an entrepreneur,” said Steadman, “it requires dedication but we enjoy coming to work every morning so the hard work pays off!

Be sure to catch Frill’s episode of Shark Tank on ABC this week!

Monday, March 2, 2015

5 College Resources You Should Take Advantage Of


Leverage leverage leverage. That's how you can make the most out of your college experience POST college. We have been a mentor to many of our younger sorority sisters that we wanted to provide you with some tips we learned along the way in college to help you succeed. These 5 resources can really help you advice in the work life post college:


  1. Locate your school's jobs and internship website and search for jobs and internships fitting to your interests. For us at Arizona State University, we had Sun Devil Career Link and it allowed us to type in keywords and internships and jobs fitting to those key words would pop up!
  2. Engage your counselor! They are getting paid to fully help you so take advantage! Bonus: try to find a counselor from the Business School. Use them to review your résumé and keep you in the know of important on campus events.
  3. Speaking of events, find out when your school's Career Fair is and go! It's all about putting yourself out there and networking.
  4. Talk to upperclassmen. They know the ropes and can really guide you down a more smooth path in college. 
  5. If you're in a sorority, engage your Educational Chairwoman and committee. This was one of the best parts of being in a sorority because so many of our sisters had helpful study guides or old books they didn't mind passing down. If you're not in a sorority, locate study groups; they're so helpful especially when prepping for a major test.
Good luck and make the best out of your college experience! 

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Sisters Succeeding: Cami Fannin




We love hearing about sorority girls succeeding and hearing about the wonderful things Cami Fannin from TCU is doing is no different. Cami Fannin is an Alpha Delta Pi at TCU and this past summer she decided to create her own service project, "Just Makes Cents". Check out the Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/JustMakesCentsservice

Cami's service project came to life on January 7th, 2015 and she has been fundraising to raise money through coins to donate to an underprivileged community of girls. There they will learn to count, save and spend their money wisely. This is an education service project focused on combating poverty and encouraging girl power and independence.

Cami feels that her efforts through the "Just Makes Cents" mission is a great way to encourage other Greek women to follow their dreams and help others at the same time. We couldn't agree more!

Are you or a sorority sister you know succeeding? Submit their story and high resolution pictures to secret@thesororitysecrets.com for a possible feature.

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

How To Have a Stress-Free Finals Week



Oh the dreaded finals week. We have definitely been there and done that, and trust us, we DON'T miss it. But, for those of you going through it, we wanted to offer some advice on how to have a stress-free finals week.

Step 1: Gather your study guides. 

If your sorority was anything like ours, we had study guides galore so if you're a sorority girl, take advantage of the resources from your sisters. Even if you're not a sorority girl, simply connecting with friends or acquaintances in class who have study guides will be a lifesaver.

Step 2: Pack snacks.

Let's face it, you will be calling the library your home, so grab some Ziplock bags and start loading up on study food. Of course, consider healthy options like carrots, apples with peanut butter, raisins, granola bars, bananas....you know, the basics. Save the meals for outside of the library or coffee shop to give yourself a little break.

Step 3: Avoid the "party" study table.

You know what we are talking about. You know, the friends who don't really come to the library to study, but to gossip and well, distract YOU. Remove yourself from that scene by either A) Reserving a quiet study room for yourself or B) Reserving a table for a dedicated group of students willing to only study. Truth be told you're going to get side tracked every now and again, but it's better to study with a group willing to get you back on track.

If you feel like you're easily distracted, make a playlist you can study to and plug your headphones in.

Step 4: Take a break.

Do jumping jacks. Play Candy Crush. Lay outside on the lawn. Visit your cafeteria. Do anything BUT study. Give your brain a breather and don't try to cram too many things into it. After all, you're honestly not going to remember it all (though you so desperately want to).


Step 5: Get some shut eye.

While we know those energy drinks and coffee are bound to keep you up, don't fight sleep. Your brain cannot function properly when you're tired so it's pretty much useless trying to stay up studying when chances are you're not going to register everything. At that point you're just a zombie. Go home, give your brain a break as you rest your pretty little head on your pillow and just be sure to set an alarm before so you're ready to attack the studying again first thing in the morning.

Step 6: Accept your best.

The day before your exam, just accept your knowledge base. If you did your study guides and practice quizzes and participated in all the assignments throughout the semester or quarter, then you already know your abilities. Keep in mind that test anxiety is very real and can have an impact on your performance. It does not accurately portray how smart you are. Just try not to sweat about not knowing all of the answers. Just try your hardest and accept your best.

Good luck with finals!

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Why I Went Greek {Ali}


Ever since I found out what a sorority was, I wanted to join one.

My love for all things Greek started in about 2001, when I was first introduced to a character named Elle Woods.  She was smart, beautiful, sassy, and looked smashing while wearing pink.  Then in 2002, my love was confirmed when I watched the show "Sorority Life" on MTV.  Does anyone remember that show?  It completely intrigued me.  What was being in a sorority all about?  Who were these people, and more importantly-- what sorority were they in?!  It boggled my mind that the Greek letters were blurred out during the entire show, and I Googled relentlessly until I could find out which organization this show was all about.  There was so much drama, there were so many twists, and I spent so many hours glued to the screen.

But that was the movies.  That was made for TV.

As I left high school, I chose to stay in-state and attend Arizona State University.  The campus looked beautiful, there were many great shops and restaurants nearby, and Mom wasn't too far of a drive either when I wanted a home-cooked meal.  Plus they had an excellent Journalism & Communication program, so I was sold.  Even though I stayed in-state, a funny thing happened... NONE of my friends from high school chose to go to ASU.  They all either chose the rival college in Arizona, or to go out of state.  Big gulp... I was a lone ranger.  I was on my own to find a new circle of friends.  There was no question; I was going through sorority recruitment.  I signed up, and went shopping for outfits to wear to recruitment immediately.

Once Bid Day rolled around, I had lunch with my Mom by campus just before the big event.  As I sat there talking to her about my experience over the past weekend, I started crying.  I fell in love with the chapter I wanted to be in, and the connections I made meant so much to me... I cried just thinking about it.  The women in this chapter were ones that I identified with, looked up to, and were in alignment with my values.  Tears of happiness, I found my home.  And a few hours later, I found out that my wish came true.

As my first few years of college flew by, I was swept away in Greek pride.  I was so proud, that I painted our sorority name in neon pink spray paint on the wall of the spare bedroom where 3 of my sisters and I lived together.  Oh, and my car had a 3 foot wide decal on the back window too (in pink, with hearts).  I got involved.  I held positions, and they forced me to take action to improve my leadership skills... and get out of my comfort zone.  As one who liked to do things typically all on their own, I learned how to delegate and trust in my sisters to help me get the job done while I was recruitment chair.  One late night while living in the house, I bonded with a new friend in my pledge class.  We laughed, we cried, and we were inseparable from that day forward.  I was there the night she met her future husband at a fraternity house.  And, she stood beside me as my Matron of Honor at my wedding 3 months ago.

And then there was that one time I got in trouble... oh boy.  Now I could leave this story out, but I'm keeping it real... this humbling event was key to my experience.  While I thought I was having an innocent party one night, it didn't exactly play out that way when I got called in the following week.  Some of the new members were at the party, and our advisors weren't too happy with me.  I was so upset with myself, I cried for days.  But you know what?  It taught me a lesson.  I learned how to better look out for my friends, my chapter... my sisters.  How, you might ask?  Because it was up to people like me to ensure the chapter I loved stayed that way; it's the older members' responsibility to guide the new members in the right direction.  Sure, we had fun.  But sisterhood to me wasn't about a party.  Often times, it was the nights hanging out on the couch that meant the most.  Suddenly, I saw the bigger picture & a lightbulb went off... it all made sense.  Once things calmed down, I realized that my sisters cared enough about me to call me out when I was doing something wrong.  I respected them for doing that.  That's exactly what happens while you're in your early 20's; you grow up.  Now I'm not suggesting to go out there and be reckless, but it's ok to make mistakes too.  Being Greek holds you accountable, and reminds you to respect the values that made you fall in love with your chapter in the first place.  Thank goodness I had my sisters by my side to experience the growing pains together.  Those 4 years wouldn't have been close to the same without them, and I can't imagine it happening any other way.  And as I continue to grow for the rest of my life, I know that they'll be right there with me for the ride.

Today, the pride I take in being Greek has taken on a new meaning... beyond any massive sticker I could place on the back of my car window.  I can say with my whole heart that choosing to go Greek is one of the most important decisions I've made in my life.  I met my bridesmaids, it challenged me as a person (and made me a better one), and I've built a career for myself out of something that I hold so dear to my heart.  It taught me to be a better friend, a better leader, and a better woman.  I even attribute my decision of going Greek to meeting my husband; if it wasn't for the people I met in my sorority, I might not have ever met him.  After graduation, being Greek takes on a whole new meaning... when you meet another woman who is also a Greek alum, it's instant common ground (same organization as you or not, it doesn't matter).  I'm fortunate that I get to stay connected to Greek life through both The Sorority Secrets, and through my company 224 Apparel as well.  Even after I've graduated, I'm able to give back to something that has given so much to me... and it gives me true joy.  I believe in sorority women.  They are among the most powerful, influential, and caring people I know.  It's an honor to be a part of such an organization, and part of a legacy of remarkable women.  I'll be forever proud to be a Greek woman, and grateful for my decision to Go Greek.

{P.S.} no TV show can capture the magic of what it's really like.  Not even close :)

Xoxo,
Ali

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Why I Went Greek {Karen}




Yesterday, we highlighted why Co Founder, Sakura "went Greek" Today, find out why Co Founder, Karen "went Greek"!

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My story is really unique in the sense that I knew absolutely NOTHING about sororities. I of course heard about them via movies, but didn't quite understand it.

Here is a little background on me. I am Nigerian-American. I was born and raised in America, however, both of my parents are Nigerian. As my parents assimilated to the American culture, we were brought up in a predominantly Caucasian neighborhood. The majority of my friends were of that race and as I continued throughout junior high and high school I tried to diversify my circle of friends, however, I yearned for more African-American girlfriends.

As I entered into my Freshman year of college I had heard about sororities that fostered young African-American women. Eager to learn more about it, I went up to the Greek Offices. When I went up to the Greek Offices toward the Non-Panhellenic area, no one was there. However, across the way in the Panhellenic area stood a tall, black woman. She said, "Can I help you?" I then let her know I was looking to talk to her about joining a historically black sorority. The tall, black girl further introduced herself as Kiara and politely asked if there was a reason why I wanted to join the all black sorority. I gave her my spiel that I explained earlier and she then stopped me and said, "Karen, I am not in an all black sorority and I have made some amazing relationships with women who I call my sisters. We have all races in my sorority, even black women. At the end of the day, it shouldn't be about the race of girls, it should be about where you feel most comfortable ". Kiara had a great point. To be honest, I have never defined my life by race. For those who know me, I have a diverse circle and seek to learn the person BEHIND the skin shade. While I do believe that there are some things similar races can vibe on, I prefer to surround myself among all walks and colors of life. Kiara then suggested that I participate in the Panhellenic recruitment which happened to be that weekend--I had nothing to lose as the historically black sororities were not looking for new members until the next semester anyway. I figured if the recruitment that weekend didn't work out, I still had the opportunity to check out the historically black sororities. Long story short, going through recruitment that weekend was the best decision of my life. I met women who I could relate to on all levels and they helped to shape my positive college experience. From holding various roles like Recruitment Chair, Social Chair, and choreographing fun philanthropic dances, I was able to practice my leadership skills and overall have a blast in college. Above all else, without my sorority experience I would not have met Sakura and Ali to start The Sorority Secrets. For that, I am grateful.

What's your positive story on why you went Greek? Share with us below!

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

12 Reasons Why You Should Live in the House


1. It's a sleepover... every. single. night.
Sure, that could mean giving up some of your quiet time, but there's nothing like spending every day and night with your sisters.

2. Yummy food!
We are officially out of the parents' house and we are living on our own- which means no more home cooked meal! That is, unless you live in the sorority house!  There's nothing like home cooked meals (breakfast, lunch, AND dinner) by the house chef!  We can't live off of cereal forever, right?

3. Gain 50 new closets... but lose your own
Sharing is caring, right?

4. Pretty Little Liars & Bachelor/ette Nights
Everyone knows exactly what day and time to show up in the living room to watch the weekly house shows.  The best part about it? Everyone's reactions ("OMG", "What?!", "No!") is always on cue.

5. There's always someone that will go on a froyo run with you
At least half of the house has a sweet tooth just as bad as yours.

6. Study buddies
There's always someone that's in the same program as you- you can always share flash cards, study guides, and help test each other!

7. Easy access to chapter meetings
Instead of driving to the house, finding parking (which is always impossible), and being 15 minutes late, just live at the house and have chapter meetings right down the hall from your bedroom!

8. Pre-party central
Whether it's a date party or formal, the house is always going to be a meet up spot to get ready with your sisters!

9. Dibs on leftover food
Those yummy desserts that the boys bring over to chapter meetings when they serenade your sorority is all yours.

10. Gym buddies
You always have a froyo buddy, but you can also always find a gym buddy to motivate one another for a great workout!

11.  Inside scoop on everything
What happens in the house, stays in the house, and the great part about it is that you live at the house so you know everything!

12. You will never have the opportunity to experience living with all of  your sisters, ever again
An opportunity like this will never come again, so enjoy every second with your sisters and experience what sisterhood is all about.

What are some other reasons why you've enjoyed living in the house?!

Friday, April 18, 2014

Sororities Best Dance Crew



Greek Week and philanthropies are so much fun and we really enjoyed participating in them when we were active sorority members. One of our most favorite competitions is when a dance off is involved. In lieu of Greek Week for many of you girls out there, we decided to compile a list of some of our favorite sorority dance performances. Check them out below! Also, if you know of any cool sorority dance performances, leave the link to them in a comment below.

ZTA at SDT Greek Grind 2013


Chapman Delta Gamma Skit 2014 (skip to 1:50)




DST Atlanta Greek Picnic Step Show



Kappa Alpha Theta Skit 2014


BONUS! Catch Co Founders Karen & Sakura in their dance at ASU

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