Yes, sorority women do where matching T-shirts, but behind each T-shirt is an individual. Sorority women are diverse in their religious and political beliefs, cultural background, finances, sexual orientation, majors, hobbies and personalities. What each woman has in common is a desire to make new friends and benefit from the personal development, leadership and social opportunities that a sorority offers to all women.
When you're considering becoming a member of a sorority and even when you join, it's important to see what is behind the T-shirt. Get to know women for who they are beyond the surface. Do they participate in varsity athletics? Are members in the theater program? Are women involved in student government? Do women participate in ROTC? These are just a few questions you can ask, and the answer shouldn't be surprising -- because in most cases the answer will be yes.
Individuality is important to sorority women, because the sum of all the differences makes a better collective whole. Part of the personal growth you experience in a sorority is learning from the differences you have with your sisters. Finding ways to live with and be great friends with women whom you only have a couple things in common: sorority and school. In a way, to get the most out of the sorority experience, you have to immerse yourself in the "culture." Spend time with different people and learn about their lives.
As you get to know your fellow new members and the initiated members and alumnae of the chapter, you will learn about their backgrounds and interests. You will find things you have in common and differences that you will overcome. You will learn about their cultures, their families, their religious beliefs, their political beliefs, their dreams and their challenges.
Through these shared experiences, whether you're living in the chapter house, in a dorm, or off-campus, you will also learn about yourself. You will learn how to manage your time, manage a budget, plan an event, have a tough conversation, share a room and be a mentor to others. As a sorority woman, you will be recognized for your achievements as an individual and for your contributions to the sorority and your university. You will also contribute your talents to the successes of your fellow sisters and your chapter on campus and in your community