Little Did I Know… The Second Time Would be the Charm

I always thought the quote “It’s the people that make the place” was cheesy–until I experienced it in the truest sense. Growing up, it was inevitable that I would join Greek life. I come from a long line of family members who had amazing experiences in their sororities and fraternities, including my parents. So for me, joining a sorority felt like a non-negotiable. 

However, my journey was anything but straightforward, and it took me a while to end up where I was meant to be. 

When I attended Auburn University my freshman year, I was quickly overwhelmed by the intensity and seemingly high stakes of sorority recruitment. The process felt like a whirlwind, and in the end, I joined a sorority that wasn’t the right fit for me. I felt out of place, and after struggling to connect with the chapter, I made the decision to drop. It left a bad taste in my mouth–not just about my sorority, but about Greek life as a whole. When I transferred to UNC, I told myself I was done. I had no interest in putting myself through another stressful recruitment process. 

But something in me nudged me to give it one more try. I figured, what do I have to lose? 

Rushing as a sophomore is never ideal, and I had my reservations. I was worried I wouldn’t find my place again, that I’d make the wrong choice, that history would repeat itself. However, I went through the process with an open mind, trying to meet as many people as possible. Ultimately, I ended up in Alpha Phi.

At first, I was hesitant–still unsure if Greek life was truly for me. But something about Alpha Phi felt different. The girls around me were genuine, kind-hearted, and welcoming in a way I hadn’t experienced before. It didn’t feel competitive. It didn’t feel uncomfortable. It felt like home. 

That feeling only grew stronger when I made the decision to live in the sorority house my sophomore year. That year was filled with countless memories, late nights, and the silliest moments on “big blue” the famous couch in our living room. The house quickly became a place of support, growth, and so much love. 

Now as a senior, I credit Alpha Phi as the single best decision I made at UNC. It gave me not only the chapter I had always hoped for but a true sense of belonging. As I took my graduation photos last week standing next to eight of the closest friends I’ve ever had, I felt a wave of gratitude for the path that led me here. Alpha Phi didn’t just give me a sorority–it gave me a family, a home, and memories I’ll carry with me long after I leave Chapel Hill.