Why Be Greek??
Happy Tuesday my darlings!! Today, I decided to get a little mushy gushy on zeee blog. Since I've started Uniquely Julz, I have kept it strictly fashion. But, I thought it would be fun to bring a little something new to the table and write about something that impacted my life tremendously a few years ago!
As some of you may or may not know, I graduated from the University of Arizona in 2012 (umm but seriously where did the time go????). Graduating from an all girls high school, I was used to the camaraderie of being around gals all of the time. So naturally, joining a sorority as a Freshman in college (in another state) was definitely something on my to-do list.
I had heard all about sororities... the parties, the boys, the Animal House type behavior. Basically, everything you see on TV. And let's get real, that totally excited me! I couldn't wait to be labeled a "sorority girl." Little did I know that joining a Greek Organization was truly sooo much more than that.
In August of 2008, I joined Alpha Phi's Beta Epsilon Chapter at the University of Arizona. I was immediately introduced to 70 new sisters from all over the states. Taking endless selfies, dancing on the front lawn to music blasting from a live DJ, screaming so loud I lost my voice, and beyond proud to wear my new letters... that entire day was one I will never forget. Little did I know, four years later, as we entered our college graduation ceremonies side by side, the friendships I had formed would be stronger than I could ever have imagined.
You see, joining a Greek organization is so much more than being labeled a "sorority girl." Yes, there were parties. Yes, there were boys. But, what you don't see on TV... the study hours, the clubs, the endless hours planning philanthropic events. The girls in my sorority literally became my family. The sleepless nights studying at a Starbucks until 10pm, grabbing a snack real quick, to only continue working in the 24-hour library. The tears, the laughs, and probably way to many inappropriate (and embarrassing) moments to write about... these are the things that truly pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Not only has it taught me the meaning of dedication, but it also taught me how to work well alongside different personalities. In fact, it's not uncommon for your "big sis" or any older girl to put in a good word for you as you embark on your career after college. Having that core network of ladies actually helped me land my current role as a Medical Device Sales Representative.
5 years after graduation, I will be forever grateful for my Alpha Phi babes. Although we all live in different states, it's like we never left when we do have a chance to get together once or twice a year. We play the virtual Bachelor Fantasy League, we keep up with group texts and celebrate new milestones from hundreds of miles away (engagements, houses, babies... etc.). What I am trying to say is, if you have a daughter, friend, niece, or sister who is on the fence about joining a Greek organization, I HIGHLY recommend it. It changed my life, and will always hold a happy place in my heart.
Below are some pictures taken by the super talented Jarrod J Photography with my best fraaand (and roommate/sistaaa in college), Amanda. I also added a fun picture at the end of all my college babes at my wedding (many of whom were my bridesmaids)!! As always, leave a comment with any questions. Enjoy dolls!
*** A wedding photo with all my Arizona ladies! (August, 2015) ***
