Olivia Giese
Jennifer Hudgens
WRD 110-055
October 12, 2015
Photo Essay: Kappa Alpha Theta
Growing up I always thought of the typical stereotypes that were associated with greek life. It wasn't until I stayed with my sister and experienced it first hand that I thought about if I wanted to join a sorority. When I rushed and joined Kappa Alpha Theta, I realized all that greek life entails. Sororities have five basic benefits: sisterhood, scholarship, leadership, philanthropy, and socializing (Benefits, Panhellenic Association, p. 1).
One of the instant connections I had with Theta was the genuineness of the girls and coming in as you were and being accepted. I instantly felt their support and like I belonged in their community. This picture to the right is on Bid Day, when I joined Kappa Alpha Theta. This was the start of welcoming my pledge class into the sorority; 90 girls from all over the U.S. It sounds cheesy, but instantly there is a bond with your new sisters that is like no other. You go from knowing hardly anyone to becoming so close with girls who are now your sisters, to find your best friends, support system, and bridesmaids. There is always someone to do something with or talk to; you are never alone. There has already been many instances to show that Theta sisters are always there to help, talk, cry, and laugh. This day contains every emotion; one of the best days of our lives. Even so shortly after, it brings smiles upon us to relive that moment of overwhelming joy. Becoming a part of the Kappa Alpha Theta community has made a home for so many of us. As I interviewed a girl in my pledge class, Halle Fodor, I asked her , “What made you decide to go theta?” She answered, “The first day of recruitment I immediately fell in love with the welcoming environment and it felt like home. Throughout the week I saw myself becoming a new member of Kappa Alpha Theta” (Fodor, Interview).
A huge issue for young women today is the feeling of rejection or not fitting in. The diversity of this group of girls ranges and together we are all a family. The feeling of acceptance and belonging was a reassurance that I wanted to make Theta my home.
Being in a sorority encourages you to serve others with acts of kindness. Many people think that sororities and fraternities are up to no good, but there is so much more to them then social life. Each sorority/fraternity holds philanthropy events, Theta’s being Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Over the last 25 years, we have stood for CASA to make a positive impact in the lives of foster children (Kappa Alpha Theta, p. 1). We also support other philanthropy events of other organizations through participating to raise money for their cause. The picture on the left is from Kappa Delta and Beta’s event, Bring It On. It is a big cheer competition that gets everyone involved whether you are on your squad representing your sorority/fraternity or just cheering them on. All proceeds go to the organization that they support as well as a certain percentage of proceeds goes to the philanthropy of the winners of the event. This next picture on the right is another example of attending fundraising activities to supports service organizations. While having a fun time, we still get to put our time aside and sacrifice for others in need.
Along with friendship and fun, being in a sorority provides opportunities to learn and get involved. All Greek groups have a standard of excellence based on ideals, purposes, principles, and values as they help you reach your goals (Benefits, Panhellenic Association, p. 1). Kappa Alpha Theta sets guidelines with certain academic involvement like maintaining above a certain GPA. They provide tutoring and mentor studying to help support you academically. Scholarship is not the only thing they focus on, but also morals and values. Theta also provides activities like weekly Bible studies and such, for people to stay involved and support them in their beliefs. To the right, this picture is an example of getting to go on the CSF Fall Retreat with some of my friends in Theta and other Greek organizations. I also asked Halle Fodor as I interviewed her, “How does a sorority push you to better yourself?” and she replied, “Kappa Alpha Theta really pushes everyone including myself to become a successful individual. We have certain qualifications to meet such as, maintaining good grades above at least a 3.0 GPA and participating in community service and philanthropy events. I have truly become a better person because of what theta strives to represent” (Fodor, Interview)
Another benefit of Greek life that a lot of people don't realize is its future networking. It provides many internships and job opportunities both in and out of college. It looks great on your resume, especially if you hold an executive or chair position. All of the community service, volunteering, and involvement is a huge booster as well. "How has Kappa Alpha Theta or sorority life in general impacted your life?" “I’ve been able to get more involved on and off campus more than I would’ve without being in a sorority. They have not only shown me what the true meaning of sisterhood is, but I know the friendships that I’ve made will last a lifetime” (Fodor, Interview). Sorority membership lasts a lifetime. After college days are over, alumni women continue to stay involved in the local chapters and serve (Benefits, Panhellenic Association, p. 1). In the beginning you become a part of Kappa Alpha Theta, but in the end you become a part of it.
Bibliography
"Benefits of Joining A Sorority." <i>Benefits of Joining A Sorority</i>. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Oct. 2015. <http://www.sapanhellenic.org/index.php?page=benefits-of-joining-a-sorority>.>
Fodor, Halle. "Kappa Alpha Theta." Personal Interview. 01 Oct. 2015.
937 Words
