Stereotype Sundays: "What My Friends Think I Do"

Many of you have probably seen these pictures floating around Facebook. This one I especially like, obviously. Each tile represents a certain sorority stereotype. While some of these may be offensive, I am a strong believer in humor. Starting this week I will post every Sunday for Stereotype Sundays, with this picture in mind. Also, I can answer questions about sorority stereotypes that you might have.

Logically, I’ll start with the first picture. Each week I will address a new tile representing a stereotype. The first tile is titled “What My Friends Think I Do.” This tile isn’t a total stereotype, but perhaps an exaggeration.

It is true that all sororities perform rituals and have secrets, but as a sister I can’t talk about that too much. It’s a secret. What I can shed light on is that rituals are not sacrificial or scary. We do not pray to Greek gods or speak in tongues. Perhaps an outsider would deem it bizarre or odd, but to us they are normal. Rituals usually include songs, candlelight, and lots of hugging. Normal right? The point is rituals aren’t crazy and kept secretive because they’d be frowned upon in society. They’re just kept secret because they are each organizations own traditions. Most traditions are ones of at least 100 years if not more.

Associated with sorority rituals are the secrets of a sisterhood. The secretive sisterhood is a true stereotype. There are things that no one can know about each sorority. Only members can posses this knowledge.

These two stereotypes show that there is some truth to the photo but also that it’s an exaggeration. Exaggerations lead to misrepresentations and confusion. Don’t exaggerate.

"You're Always Wearing Your Letters"

Awesome video that embodies the true commitment of all sororities. Thanks sisters of Delta Zeta from Grand Valley State University in Michigan!

Brainy, Beautiful, and All Business

I know you're wondering about the brain diagram posted, but it is not so we can study the frontal lobe. The brain is a machine with parts that must work together to perform at optimum efficiency. This is how a sorority should work.

The parts of a sorority, much like the parts of the brain, help it to function at its best. What are the parts you ask? There are positions, leaders and committees that hold a sisterhood together. Sororities are not unorganized messes populated by silly college girls. Another stereotype disproved?

I just mentioned that there are positions, leaders and committees that help a sorority stick together. Imagine theses three things as the parts to the brain diagram shown.

Leaders would be the president, vice president, and other member of the executive board, and yes, there is an executive board. They even meet in a spacious plush boardroom. I am not making this stuff up. Staff positions are the next in line. I am the sorority historian, which is an office position. Other positions include: social chair, publicity chair, and insignia chair among others. but you get the idea. There are too many to name.

Lastly, there are committees. Committees come in handy with bigger projects like fundraisers. Often there are social, fundraising, and philanthropy committees, but each campus is different.

All of these counterparts have to work together, even though they sometimes disagree. That's why we have business meetings, bylaws, and all out girl war (ok maybe not). Sorority sisters try their best to work together, agree, and be a brain.

Did I mention the brain also symbolizes how intelligent a sister has to be? Well they do. High GPAs are a must. Think about it... you don't think a stupid girl could really manage all that? Another stereotype defied. That's two in one post!

Basics of Sorority Sorrows and Solace

Sororities and fraternities are often associated with throwing parties and creating drama, but this blog is going to defy those stereotypes. As a sorority sister myself, I know first hand the ins and outs of university Greek life. I attend a small university, but for the topics I will address national Greek organizations are essentially the same in all places. Topics that any sister can relate to will be addressed. Those interested in sororities can also learn more about them here and comment with questions. This is not a blog to exploit Kappas or Thetas, but to exploit issues and stereotypes that all sororities face. This is also a place to celebrate successes of sororities.

People often ask, “What do you guys do?” Most students are oblivious to the obligations of sisters on campus. Most all Greeks are required to maintain an above average GPA and record community service hours, among other things. I will elaborate on such aspects of sorority life later that disprove the stupid sorority girl stereotype.

Belonging to a Greek organization is a lifetime commitment, but well worth it. The networking possibilities and the impression it makes on a resume are priceless. The success stories are endless. Some of which I will write about.

Sororities don’t just teach girls how to throw a great party and be a good wife. Sororities turn young girls into established women. They teach leadership, responsibility, and other valuable skills useful for personal and professional life after college.