15 Chapters, One Sisterhood: How Pan Exec Entirely Changed My Freshmen Experience
By Piper Hansill - October 2024
15 chapters, one sisterhood.
That’s the first thing I saw in the ASU Panhellenic Instagram bio as I clicked on the linktree, opened the recruitment application, and took my first steps towards an immersive experience in the Panhellenic community alongside the thousands of other freshmen finding their home at ASU. While, back then, I thought it was a cliche, I can confidently say that statement has proven to be more than true as I stand here almost a year-and-a-half later.
As a freshman, everything is so daunting. Going through formal recruitment–daunting. Meeting your three-hundred girl chapter on Bid Day–daunting. A senior telling you to apply to Panhellenic Exec when you’re not even initiated yet–daunting.
While everything about those first few months in the Panhellenic community was daunting, there are many different words I now ascribe to the Panhellenic sisterhood: companionship, support, and personal and professional development. I’m so glad that I embraced the dauntingness of applying to Pan Exec early on in my college career. It is because of my term on the Panhellenic Executive Council that I have been fortunate enough to feel the extent of this sisterhood firsthand.
As the only freshmen appointed to a Panhellenic position last fall, I remember entering the very first meeting as nervous as could be. I sat down surrounded by all older Panhellenic women, unsure how I could possibly be qualified enough to be in the same room as them. Throughout that first meeting, and to this day, I look around at the 13 other women I am proud to call my Panhellenic sisters in awe of their leadership, compassion, and determination. I have had such an advantage to be able to gain a dozen admirable women to look up to and learn from daily as I journeyed through my first year in college.
Not only that, but the friendships that have developed within the board have entirely altered not just my freshmen year, but my entire college career. These relationships have provided a stronghold during my time of need, a resource in my academic and collegiate endeavors, and a boost in my professional development. There has been no comparable experience in terms of personal and undergraduate growth that I have come across both in and outside of Greek Life.
As I reflect on my freshman year, I can’t recommend Pan Exec enough to anyone in our Panhellenic chapters, especially freshmen. My freshmen year was entirely benefited by the experience and people that Pan Exec brought me. As I look ahead to the rest of my collegiate career and thereafter, I know Pan Exec and its effects will continue to propel myself in my personal, academic, and professional goals.
From PNM to President: Maximizing Your Sorority Journey
Megan McGuire - August 2024
When I embarked on formal recruitment as a freshman, I could not have foreseen my journey leading me to become Panhellenic President by my senior year. Like many of you, I entered recruitment brimming with excitement and anticipation, yet uncertain about what lay ahead. I knew I wanted to immerse myself in my chapter, but I wasn’t entirely sure how. With the spotlight on securing that coveted bid and joining a chapter, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the process. But what happens after that? How do we fully embrace and maximize our sorority experience once we’ve joined?
Reflecting on my college journey, especially my time as a sorority member, there are a few things I’d change if given the chance. One significant lesson I’ve learned is the importance of building connections early on, particularly with rho gammas and fellow potential new members (PNMs). Engaging with the recruitment process more actively could have made my experience as a PNM more enjoyable and less stressful.
Starting college in August 2021, we were navigating mask mandates and restrictions on group gatherings, which meant that Round 1 of recruitment occurred over Zoom. My first in-person interaction was at the student pavilion to pick up Round 2 shirts. During the initial weekend of in-person recruitment, I often isolated myself, either returning to my dorm or remaining with my rho gam group without actively engaging with them or the other PNMs. In hindsight, I regret not making a more concerted effort to connect with my rho gammas and the other PNMs. Although I am now more confident and outgoing, I wish I had realized sooner the value of these connections. It wasn't until the second day of Round 3, the sisterhood round, that I began to open up and interact with my rho gamma. Despite knowing which chapters I wanted to prefer, I was still incredibly nervous about the process. If I hadn’t reached out to my recruitment counselor that night, my nerves might have gotten the best of me, potentially causing me to withdraw from recruitment and miss out on the enriching journey that followed.
My advice to you is to fully utilize the support and guidance of your rho gammas. Engage with the PNMs around you and build relationships. You never know who might become a close friend, your twin, or even someone you'll collaborate with on an executive board in the future. Building these connections early can significantly enhance your recruitment experience and beyond.
My time at ASU and within Greek Life has been a journey of involvement and growth. Over the past three years, I’ve taken on 13 different roles within my chapter, from committee positions to director and chairwoman roles. As I approach my final semester, I continue to hold two positions within my chapter. Leadership roles in undergraduate Greek Life are incredibly valuable, helping you develop skills that shine on your resume and in future job interviews. However, getting involved doesn’t always require holding a formal title.
Each chapter has a unique Big/Little process, which you’ll experience as a new member. As an older member, having a Little is a rewarding opportunity. It allows you to serve as a role model, forge new friendships, and stay connected with younger members as your Greek family grows. Additionally, chapters host a variety of academic, sisterhood, and social events throughout the year. Even as a senior, I prioritize attending these events as they help build a robust support system, enhance my academic life, and create cherished memories. Chapters often hold weekly meetings, frequently on Monday evenings, and host events like recruitment practice. While these may seem like routine obligations, changing your perspective can turn them into highlights of your week. For me, Monday night chapter meetings have become a beloved part of my routine. Embrace these moments as opportunities to connect with friends who share your commitment. It’s a chance to bond with your Big or Little, especially if your schedules are packed. Setting aside distractions like your phone and focusing on your sisterhood can make these moments special and memorable.
Reflecting on my freshman year, the impact my recruitment counselor had on me inspired me to apply to become a rho gamma for the 2022 fall formal recruitment during my sophomore year. Serving as a rho gamma provided numerous highlights and memorable experiences, from helping a PNM jump-start her car to guiding new members through the recruitment process. This role ignited a deeper interest in Panhellenic involvement, leading me to run for the 2022-2023 Panhellenic Executive Board as the Vice President of Recruitment External. After fulfilling this role during the 2023 fall recruitment, I was motivated to run for the 2023-2024 Panhellenic President position, which brought me to where I am today. Since my sophomore year, I’ve had the honor of serving in two Panhellenic roles, being a recruitment counselor, participating in two different sorority and fraternity life boards, and joining the Order of Omega Greek Life honor society. Additionally, I’m involved in four campus clubs and look forward to expanding my involvement this semester. Getting involved in campus clubs, your council’s executive board or various Greek Life groups can be as enriching as your chapter experiences. These diverse roles have continually reinforced why I chose my organization. Each year, as I run home again, I return with a renewed appreciation for my chapter. Witnessing our Greek Life community from various perspectives has been one of the most valuable aspects of my time at ASU.
My journey from a nervous freshman to Panhellenic President has been filled with experiences I wouldn’t trade for anything. From joining my sorority to embracing every opportunity, my college experience has been profoundly fulfilling. I encourage you to do the same—whether through leadership roles, chapter events, or building connections. Your sorority experience is what you make of it, and countless ways exist to make it uniquely yours. Remember, it’s not just about titles or positions. It’s about the friendships you form, the memories you create, and the personal growth you achieve. Each moment contributes to a tapestry of experiences that will shape your college years and beyond. Dive into the opportunities offered by your chapter and Greek Life community; each experience is a chance to build a stronger, more supportive network and create lifelong memories. As you embark on your sorority journey, know that the more you give, the more you’ll receive. So take that leap, get involved, and make your sorority experience everything you want it to be. Your future self will thank you.
10 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before Going Through Recruitment
Jayden Meister - July 2024
If someone told me three years ago that I would be the Vice President of Recruitment for ASU Panhellenic, I would never have believed them. Three years ago, I was about to move to a new state as a first generation college student. I had no idea what to expect, I hadn’t even signed up for recruitment. One day before recruitment registration closed something pushed me to sign up. I had absolutely no idea that a last minute decision would change my entire college experience. I had no idea what recruitment would be like, I didn’t even know what a rho gamma was. So I’m here to tell you all the things I wish someone would have told me before going through sorority recruitment at ASU.
It is okay to be nervous!
It may seem like everyone is cool, calm, and collected while you’re freaking out in your dorm before Philanthropy round. In reality, everyone is nervous! All of the other women are doing this for the first time too, recruitment is such a unique experience, nerves are to be expected. This is my fourth recruitment and I’m still nervous, so you’re not alone.
Take Photos to Document Your Experience!
One day you’re going to want to look back on your time going through recruitment. Take photos with your rho gamma group and girls you make friends with. One thing I didn’t do was take pictures of my outfits for each round and every year I look back and wish I had!
Take Notes
You are going to have so many conversations each round and you’ll want to be able to recall how you felt in each house when it comes to putting in your preferences. Keep them in your phone or write them in a notebook!
Pack a bag each day
Here’s a few things I’d put in my rush bag!
Extra shoes (something comfy for walking), a handheld fan, lip gloss, chapstick, snacks, portable charger, notebook, hair ties, extra makeup
It’s hot outside!
If you’re coming to Arizona from out of state you probably have no idea how hot it will be! You won’t be outside for long periods of time, but waiting to go into the houses can be a little sweaty. Dress for the weather and be prepared!! It is so important to hydrate and eat good meals. You’re allowed to bring your water bottle along with you through the houses.
Go to the Welcome Week Events!
A great way to get an idea of sorority life before recruitment starts is to meet the chapters during welcome week! There will be a few opportunities and this is a good way to ease your nerves too.
It’s not that serious
It is so easy to forget that recruitment is meant to be fun! It can be really stressful and upsetting at times and that’s okay! You’re going to want to look back on this experience as a happy memory, so make the most of it.
Have an open mind
People are going to tell you this throughout your entire experience, but I’m going to tell you why! Going into recruitment with your mind set on one chapter can make it really hard. You want to find a chapter that aligns with your values and the chapter you will get to call home at the end may not be what you think at the beginning. So much can change each round!
Make friends with your rho gammas
Your rho gammas are there to help you! They have all been in your shoes and know the right things to do to make your experience better. When I was a PNM I’d sit with my rho gammas during breaks in my schedule and it was the best! I made friends with the other PNMs and even got to run home with them!
Have fun!
Three years ago recruitment helped me learn more about myself and was the beginning to the most amazing experience of my life. Don’t rush to get to bid day at the end, your time spent in each house is more valuable than you realize. You’re not just joining one chapter, but an entire community and we can’t wait to have you in it.
I hope that you are excited to take part in something bigger than yourselves. Myself and the rest of the Panhellenic community can’t wait to see you in August!
Following the Sisterhood: How My Family's Greek Legacy Inspired My Own Journey
Madison O’Neal - June 2024
I've been fortunate to grow up in a family deeply involved in Greek Life. From a young age, I was eager to follow in their footsteps after hearing countless stories about the friendships, laughter, and support that define Greek life.
My grandma was the first person in my family to join a Greek Organization, Pi Beta Phi. She embodies all of the qualities you'd desire in a good friend: loyalty, kindness, and integrity. Her time in Pi Phi not only molded her undergraduate years, but it also established lifetime friendships that went beyond her sorority. Being able to share my own memories with my grandma and taking her to events like Founders Day has brought us even closer, which I didn't think was possible. The first Founders Day I took her to was incredibly special. She ran into her old roommate from Washington State University, and their joyful reunion was heartwarming to witness. Her roommate even wrote me a sweet, personal letter congratulating me on my initiation into Pi Beta Phi. We’ve turned attending founders day into a tradition together.
When I was eight, I witnessed something profound about the unique and irreplaceable bonds we form. My aunt was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and given only a 2% chance of surviving the first year. Against all odds, she fought for five years and five months. The love and support she received from her sorority sisters and others in the Panhellenic community were incredible. This unwavering support not only touched our family deeply but also, I believe, gave her strength to keep fighting. Even after her passing, the love continued from the wonderful women she called friends. When I went through recruitment, they shared their experiences with me and supported me wholeheartedly, regardless of my final decision on what chapter to pledge.
My mom was a Pi Beta Phi, and my dad was a Theta Chi, and they first met during the second semester of their freshman year. It's amazing to think that Greek life brought them together, a connection that has lasted a lifetime. They are everything I aspire to have someday. As incredible parents, they have always been there for me, providing love, support, and encouragement. During my initiation into Pi Phi, my mom had the honor of pinning me with a pin that had once belonged to my grandma, my mom, and my Aunt Summers. It was an unforgettable experience, one that brought both of us to tears. I couldn’t anticipated just how special that moment would be. Words can't capture the depth of happiness and love I felt.
The love we have for one another in our community is so real and genuine. Fall in love with all these chapters and the wonderful women within them. I can wholeheartedly say that there were many chapters where I could see myself. The sisterhood we have here is for a lifetime.
How Being in a Sorority Helped Me Land My Dream Internship
Nicole LaFrenere - June 2024
Reflecting on my journey through Greek Life, from being a prospective member to eventually becoming a recruiter, I've come to appreciate the invaluable skills it has cultivated in me, especially when navigating important life stages like interviews and professional interactions.
Initially, going through recruitment myself was a pivotal experience. It taught me the importance of making a positive first impression, articulating my thoughts clearly, and engaging in meaningful conversations. These skills proved indispensable when I transitioned to the role of a recruiter for my sorority during formal recruitment. Speaking with hundreds of women from diverse backgrounds honed my ability to communicate effectively and instilled in me a deep confidence in approaching new people and situations.
As an accounting student preparing for internships at prestigious firms like the Big 4, where the recruiting process starts early and demands professionalism, the confidence I gained from my sorority experience became a game-changer. Networking, which I once perceived as daunting, now feels like second nature. Whether discussing career aspirations or sharing personal anecdotes during interviews, I find myself at ease, drawing upon the conversational skills I developed through my sorority involvement.
Beyond the immediate benefits of securing my top choice for internships, such as the one I accepted with Ernst Young in Boston for Summer 2025, Greek Life has fundamentally shaped my approach to life after college. It's not merely about building a network; it's about cultivating genuine connections and fostering a sense of community, both of which are vital in professional settings. These experiences have taught me that effective communication is not just about speaking confidently but also about listening attentively and empathetically.
Looking back, I now realize that Greek Life offers far more than social activities; it provides a platform for personal growth and leadership development. It has empowered me to embrace new challenges with poise and optimism, knowing that the skills I've acquired, whether in networking, teamwork, or leadership, will continue to serve me well in my future endeavors.
I am deeply grateful for the transformative impact of my sorority experience. It has not only prepared me for the competitive world of internships and career opportunities but has also enriched my life with lifelong friendships and a profound sense of self-assurance
