Have I ever told you guys, how much I LOVE this time of year??? My timeline has been filling up with bright new faces of Sorors, Sistergreeks, and Fraternity Members. Congratulations to all of you who have crossed the sands into -----Land. *Fill in the blank with your prospective organization*
As for me, today is my DeltaVersary! I can't believe that my ships and I are celebrating 19 years together. Where has the time gone? Every time I witness a crossing, it reminds me of my very own crossing and my coming- out show! (That's what we use to call it back in the day). Seeing some of your NIPs online, you all put in some HARD work! Not only were they entertaining, but very educational. Great job to your prophytes! Once the dust settles, here is some advice that I want to give to all of you.
1. Be humble! I have personally witnessed how three letters can seriously change a person. Don't be THAT person. Remember just months ago; you were on the other side sitting at Rush, hoping, wishing and praying to be chosen. There are plenty of people that want to be on your shoes. They were not selected for whatever reason. Please don't give them a reason to be turned off due to your attitude. I am not saying to start becoming everyone's BFF, but if someone is inquiring about membership remember how you were once upon a time in their shoes.
2. Now the REAL work begins. I am sure you have heard this before, but it's TRUE! Membership in these organizations requires a lot of hard work. Join a committee and start learning the inner workings of your organization. You've always been on the outside, now see how it all comes together on the inside.
3. Prioritize your time. If you think you were mad busy going through the process, you are about to be active as a member. If you are a planner, you might want to pull out your calendar at your meetings so you can add all upcoming events to your schedule.
3. Save your COINS! I know that sounds crazy, but for real, FOR REAL, save your $! Membership in these organizations is NOT CHEAP but NO MEANS! Annual dues, conferences, Fundraising events, Community Service events, etc. They all cost $ and will add up quickly.
4. Please make sure to register for Regional Conferences and National Convention. This is the ONLY way to find out the inner workings of your organization at the regional and national level. You will NOT regret it, I promise! When I attended my first National Convention, I was in awe! Seeing thousands of Sorors in their White. And going to the opening, I cried. It was just a bit overwhelming. (In a right way mind you). This is also an excellent opportunity to meet Sorors/Frat brothers from all over. I still keep in touch with a few Sorors I met from my first National Convention 19 years ago. This will give you a perfect opportunity to not only meet Sorors from your region (Regional Conference) or across the U.S. (National Convention/Boule'). Speaking of which let me revisit that you need to make sure you save your coins for Vendors. The BEST paraphernalia are at Conferences/Conventions/Boules!
5. Don't take it personally! Your new Sorority Members and Fraternity members are not going to agree with you all the time. You may not agree with them. And you know what? That's ok! That idea that you think is so brilliant? May not receive the majority vote that is needed to implement within the chapter. Just don't take it personally, and keep it moving. I am saying this with love. The sooner you realize this, the better.
6. Keep your line issues within your LINE! If you and your LS have a problem, talk it out among yourselves.
I will share more later, so that's all for now!
