Why do the words “sorority girl” have such a negative connotation? When someone calls me a “sorority girl”, I tend to cringe, often feeling ashamed or embarrassed. Before my sophomore year in college, I never even imagined myself being in a sorority. But why was this? Was it because of the stereotypes
associated with being in a sorority? Unfortunately, a lot of us fail to see past the negative connotation associated with the term “sorority girl.” Here is the truth behind seven sorority myths:
Myth #1: Sorority girls aren’t smart
Fact: Most sororities require a minimum grade point to pledge and remain a sister of the organization. Sorority (and fraternity) members tend to have higher grade point averages than their non-Greek classmates. According to USAToday.com, college graduation rates are 20% higher among Greeks than non-Greeks.
Myth #2: Being a part of a sorority is one big party
Fact: According to USAToday.com, there has been at least one-hazing induced death per year across College campuses—82% of these are a result of binge drinking.
While a sorority is a social organization, there is so much more to a sorority than just going out. Movies like The House Bunny and Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising portray cliché girls who love to party. Some of the best memories I’ve had from being in a sorority come from community service, sisterhood events, and on campus activities. Greek life is often associated with drinking and partying.
Myth #3: Being in a sorority will hurt future job opportunities
Fact: Being part of a sorority opens up numerous networking opportunities for internships and jobs. It not only creates opportunities but also useful connections.
Myth #4: Sorority girls pay for friends
Fact: This one always makes me laugh. Being part of a sorority isn’t like being part of a gym—you don’t buy a membership. The sisters of a particular organization carefully select you because they like you for who you truly are. The money for dues goes towards benefits for the national chapters. Joining a sorority does not automatically guarantee you a group of friends—just like outside of a sorority, you have to work for these friendships.
Myth #5: Sorority friendships are fake and forced
Fact: Your friendships within a sorority are what you make them to be. In my own personal experience, I’ve met some of my closest friends, and some of the most genuine and sincere girls while being a part of my organization. Sororities don’t provide fake or forced friendships—they provide you with the opportunity to meet new people and create meaningful and everlasting friendships.
Myth #6: Sorority girls are self-centered
Fact: Most sororities are focused on helping others. They have specific philanthropies that fundraise for and support each year. According to the FraternityAdvisor.com, the Greek system is the largest network of volunteers in the US, with members donating over 10 million hours of volunteer service each year.
Myth #7: You have to be hazed in order to get into a sorority.
Fact: Unfortunately, hazing is a sad reality of Greek Life. However, not all sororities participate in a hazing season. Hazing is banned by the National Sorority Headquarters and the punishments are severe.
