Sororities have gotten a bad reputation over the years. Some see Greek Life as strictly parties and drinking. Others say it is nothing but drama and girl fights. Some would even say that joining an organization is buying your friends. The movies and headlines do not contradict these views, either. However, I am here to tell you that Alpha Omicron Pi is not a stereotype, it is my sisterhood.
I cannot say that I was not hesitant about joining a sorority. I had grown up hearing all these negative stories and seeing movies portray them in a certain light. I am also one who tends to distance myself from drama. Looking back now though, I could not imagine what my life would be without AOII. What you do not see in the movies or the headlines, is the incredible benefits and journeys you have experience by joining a sorority. They have encouraged and pushed me to be a better me.
AOII has given me more than I could have ever asked for. I have a group of women, not just on campus, but across the country who will help me at the drop of a hat. They constantly take me in with open arms, even when I mess up, and never hold it against me or judge me. They are always there to be my crying shoulder, an ear to listen to my pointless rants, or simply to help me with an assignment. I know that I have someone always there for me now, and for the rest of my life.
Earlier this year, I found out my grandfather had severe health issues. My best friends were there when my mom called me to tell me, and held me for hours as I cried. They did everything in their power the next couple of days to cheer me up. I never had a lot of girl friends in high school, but I can say with full confidence that these girls will be my forever friends, and sisters. When JSU got hit by a tornado this March, the amount of support and donations we received from other AOII chapters was wonderfully overwhelming. They offered us more than we could have imagined, and would have gone to the ends of the Earth to get us what we needed.
Alpha Omicron Pi was founded on faith, hope, and love. My sisters have taught me so much about each of those things, and they live through these things every day. They each have a special place in my heart, and I will always have a piece of them with me wherever I may go. AOII is the farthest thing from a drama filled group of partiers, they are amazing women who strive to make the world a better place. I am forever grateful for my sisters and for AOII.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
BAILEY NORRELL, PC '16
Starbucks Order: Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Decade She Should've Grown Up In: The 20s!
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