Great Families Have Dozens of Brothers and Sisters

Muriel KennistonOctober 17, 2013 Each year, members of Greek life eagerly anticipate one thing above all else: The arrival of new pledges.“Rush” seems to be a fairly appropriate term for the hectic and tumultuous week that the people here at Santa Clara, who participate, have just experienced. The recruitment festivities are a lot more taxing than the term might imply. The hours are long, the practices are draining and the songs resonate for blocks along Bellomy Street.But this time brings out the best of the student body. Students from all walks of life show up to take part.Still, because the fraternities and sororities are not officially affiliated with Santa Clara, many students feel that it is unnecessary to their college experience to rush.Then why do so many students end up rushing? What is so special about joining one of these organizations?The answer lies in providing an experience different from the stereotype.We’ve all heard the horror stories of fraternity parties gone bad and sorority girls being hostile toward one another, but here at Santa Clara, it seems that we have made it our mission to overcome these stereotypes and create a culture of our own.The bond we share with our brothers or sisters doesn’t seek to exclude non-Greek students.I began my freshman year believing that I would not fit into Greek life during college. Judging by only knowledge of fictional depictions and secondhand, non-Santa Clara accounts, I didn’t think it would be for me.My friends, however, convinced me to rush, saying it would be a good place to meet people and it couldn’t hurt to try.They were right.From the first day of rush, I felt stunningly comfortable with everyone I met. The girls were welcoming and sweet and took an interest in me immediately. They soon felt like family.It quickly changed my viewpoint of sororities to not that of a cult-like organization, but of a sisterhood and family with a truly unbreakable bond.With every day that passed, I found myself becoming more involved in the organization because it was something I grew to want to be a part of.I found a place where I truly felt at home. The girls invited me in with open arms and made me feel at ease. I had found not only best friends for the long haul, but a group of girls that I could see as my future bridesmaids.Although I was skeptical about the idea of being in a sorority, it has only enhanced my college experience with friendships and moments that will never be forgotten.Muriel Kenniston is a junior environmental science major.