Still part of a larger family

A while ago, our daughter had decided she wanted to be a part of a sorority. She was very enthusiastic when she called to describe to us what they stood for and to detail all of the wonderful people she had met. A day or two later, she called somewhat devastated as she was not invited to join this sorority. In that moment, you attempt to comfort your child as best you can and with time, the disappointment settles and wanes away.

Although sororities and fraternities can be a great opportunity with many memorable experiences; I am a firm believer in the fact that you must be a strong individual to be a part of these organizations. You must know who you are first. Because, once you join, you will have a “family”, that influences who you are. Ideally, you will let it enhance the person you are, not define it. I have witnessed it change people making them less open to anyone outside of their group, watching as they become engulfed in their smaller family. And that is a shame, because you could be missing out on great friendships by limiting yourself. I would encourage all students to wait until at least your sophomore year before you commit to one organization or another. If you truly want to join an organization, I am sure that they are all wonderful and you’ve thought through your decision. However, just be sure that you know who you are and stay committed to who you are – without wavering. The bottom line is this, once you were accepted to Saint Leo University, you all became brothers and sisters – part of a larger family. Joining a sorority or fraternity or any other organization surrounds you with just a few of the many. Even though your individual group is smaller – you are still a part of the larger family.

God Bless