Rush is literally such a fun time but it’s also super stressful so here are some of my tips for going into it!!
I think the thing that helps the most is having an idea of what they’re going to ask you so you thought about what you can say. It’s the same thing as a job interview where you want to at least get your thoughts a little bit aligned so that when you’re in there it’s less stressful. So for the first round, expect them to ask like super basic questions: what you did for the summer, how your move was, why you chose your school, what you’re studying, those types of things. Then for philanthropy they’re going to ask about your community service and what you care about as a person. Sisterhood they’re going to ask you what you’re looking for in a sorority what type of friendships you value that type of stuff.
The other thing is that it’s a lot going on so taking notes helps trying to keep an open mind and being comfortable with the fact that so much is changing and one day you could love a house and the next day you could think it’s not really a good fit and that that’s totally ok!
Most importantly, everyone says it, but it’s so true. Be yourself if you want a house that’s gonna be a good fit for you. Then you need to really be you during the process!!
I seriously loved Rush so much as a PNM and as a member so I hope everyone has such a fun time!!
... Read moreWalking into sorority rush can feel like stepping onto a whirlwind, full of excitement, nerves, and a million questions. My original tips covered the basics of preparing for conversations and keeping an open mind, but let's dive a little deeper into how you can truly shine and find your home, especially when it comes to understanding that special sisterhood vibe.
First off, let’s talk more about those crucial conversations, particularly around sisterhood. While you're preparing answers for questions about joining a sorority and your values, remember it’s a two-way street! Don't be afraid to ask the members about their favorite sisterhood events or what support systems they’ve found within their chapter. I found that asking specific questions, like "What's a typical Sunday afternoon like with your sisters?" or "How do you support each other during finals?" can give you a much clearer picture than general platitudes. It helps you gauge if their sisterhood truly aligns with what you're looking for. It's not just about what they ask you; it's about you finding out if you'll thrive there.
Another thing I can't stress enough is the power of preparation beyond just your answers. The OCR image mentioning "preparing lighthearted stories for the first round of rush conversations" is spot on! Have a few go-to anecdotes about your hobbies, memorable summer experiences, or even a funny, relatable moment ready. These aren't just for entertainment; they help the members get a real sense of your personality and make you memorable. It moves beyond the basic questions and lets your true self shine through, which is key to finding a genuine connection.
And let's talk about the marathon that is rush week. The OCR also highlighted "taking notes after each rush round to remember conversations and houses" – this is absolutely essential! After you leave a house, before you even talk to your friends, quickly jot down a few bullet points. Who did you talk to? What did you discuss? What was your overall feeling about the house? Did anything specific stand out, positive or negative? Believe me, after a few houses, everything can blend together, and these notes become your lifesaver for decision-making. They help you reflect objectively and remember those initial gut feelings.
Finally, the advice to keep "keeping an open mind during rush" isn't just a suggestion; it's vital for a positive experience. You might go in with preconceived notions about certain houses, or even find yourself drawn to one house intensely early on. But rush is designed to help you explore. Chapters change, and your preferences might too. The house you thought was perfect on day one might not feel right on day three, and that's completely okay. Allow yourself to be surprised, to connect with people you didn't expect, and to let your journey unfold naturally. Trust the process, trust your instincts, and most importantly, be kind to yourself throughout what can be an incredibly intense, but ultimately rewarding, experience.