The stress of finals week comes to an end, but does the stress really ever end? For many freshman and sophomore girls, the stress of spring recruitment begins. When it comes to rush, everything counts. With the long list of things to stress over, VALLEY gives their guide to Penn State’s spring recruitment to help calm and guide Potential New Members.
This is NOT Bama Rush
One thing most people may think when they hear the word “rush” is the big, over-the-top stereotype of the University of Alabama’s rush process (aka Bama Rush). Many people may have found themselves in August on “Bama RushTok.” For some people, the stressfulness of that process causes them to turn away from rushing.
Rushing at Penn State is a completely different experience. Many sororities are extremely laid back, and it is much easier rushing in the spring. It is definitely nothing like Greek life in the south. If you are interested in joining Greek life but don’t think a sorority is the place for you because of other schools’ rush process, you may be wrong. Greek life at Penn State is often incredibly chill and not a hassle to be a part of.
Don’t Waste Your Money on Outfits
Dear PNMs: do not buy a different outfit for every day! Each sorority only sees you once each round. Therefore, you can wear the same outfit each day for one round! Buy one outfit for Philanthropy, Sisterhood and Preference. Buying multiple outfits when you can simply reuse one without anyone noticing is a waste of money.
Chapter Members are Just as Nervous
One thing all PNMs need to know is that the majority of the current sorority members rushing them are just as nervous as they are. Most are sophomores, and while it might not be their first rush, it is their first time on the other side of recruitment. Chapter members want to make a good impression just like you do, and they are just as nervous.
Keep Warm!
When you show up to check into a party, you have about 10-15 minutes between arrival and the party start time. This gives you time to touch up your makeup, change your shoes and use the bathroom. Because of this allotted time, feel free to walk to the parties in sweats and Uggs. Bring a bag with your shoes and change when you get there. Remember: you are rushing in the middle of January, walking for 30 minutes to parties and you will be cold.
Do it for YOU!
Don’t rush a specific sorority because of your friends, and definitely don’t rank a chapter higher because your friends want to. Being in different chapters doesn’t mean a thing, and it won’t change anything in your existing friendships. If anything, being in different chapters will introduce you to more people around campus.
So, as spring recruitment comes around, take all these pieces of advice when preparing and going through the rush process. Make sure to follow @VALLEYmag to let us know if these tips helped you, and what your pieces of advice would be to PNMs!
