Underneath it All: The Unseen Positive Effects of Being in a Sorority

We all see the good that sororities and fraternities do on our campus. Whether it’s Sigma Kappa raising over $2,000 at our car show for the Alzheimer’s Association, Sigma Alpha Epsilon taking on their own B+ Hero, or simply handing out snacks and positive messages during finals week, it’s obvious that Greek life has a positive impact on our community.

It’s not just the community that Greek life affects; it’s the individuals themselves. Sororities and fraternities provide great career and networking opportunities, from résumé building workshops to leadership seminars. They also offer scholarships that members can benefit from, as well as service opportunities that can turn into rewarding and memorable experiences. The more obvious benefit that Greek life brings is a family that you can always rely on.

These are the things we see on the surface. But what’s underneath it all? What impact has joining a sorority had on me that can’t be physically seen? It’s hard to put into words, so maybe I should tell my story.

I’ve always suffered from depression and anxiety. There are days when I wish I could just shut my mind off because my thoughts are racing so much, and other days when I could lie in bed forever. I’ve felt so down about myself that I no longer felt the will to live. I’ve held a bottle of pills in my hand thinking about how to end it all. I’ve also self-harmed since high school; it felt like a release of pain. I still struggle with these issues everyday, but I can honestly say they’ve taken a turn for the better since finding my sisters.

Sigma Kappa fulfills me in ways I never knew a person could be fulfilled. My sisters inspire me to be strong every single day. Being around so many different women with so many different stories is an amazing, eye-opening experience. Seeing that my sisters go through struggles of their own helps me realize I am not alone.

I’ve learned a lot about myself from being around my sisters. Whether it’s organizing a sisterhood event or tabling outside the Stud for our philanthropy, I’ve realized what I’m capable of and the great abilities I possess. It’s not just limited to projects, though. Sitting beside my sisters among the midnight laughs and emotional heart-to-hearts, I’ve learned my greatest purpose: to be a friend.

Joining a sorority brings many benefits, but it’s the effect it has on you that is the most important factor of all. Having others to rely on helps you to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and being there for others helps you see the light in yourself. When I see where I am right now, on the road to getting to where I want to be, I know that my sisters are by my side, building me up and pushing me forward every step of the way.