How much do connections matter?

The only thing "connections" means is high school with the same girls and frenemy groups all over again. They aren't any better, you'll find that out when you get here. You will get a bid to a solid house with a good reputation without being in those circles. Relax. And there is no "old row" at UGA, if there were you would be surprised which chapters actually would be "old row", not the ones that greekrank posters think they are.

I didn’t know many uga sorority girls beforehand and got a bid to a top house- it’s rlly about if you “fit” within a certain chapter. I didn’t know any of the girls in my house personally but during rush I saw myself there for the next 4 years, etc. they’ll be able to sniff you out too if you’d fit well. But just a word of advice I’d try not to get too caught up in what house is the “best.” That’s a one way ticket to feeling isolated, having trouble making friends, and whatever else. It’ll all work out!

There is no old row at uga. There are about 10-12 sororities at uga that are the most sought after. But honestly, every chapter is different. If you’re are only aiming for a certain few, you will have horrible experience.
Many of the “top” sororities pick girls from their own high schools or out of state girls. They call themselves “top” and rank themselves but it’s just drama!