Sorority Life Year One
You’ve found your letters! Yay! Now what?
Joining a sorority is an unforgettable experience, filled with friendships, traditions, and exciting events. Your first year is especially eventful as you go from a new member to a fully initiated sorority sister. Here are some of the best moments you can expect during your first year in a sorority!
Bid Day—This is your very first day with your new letters! Every campus hands out their bid cards slightly differently, from gathering in big stadiums where everyone opens them at once to sliding the bid cards under each girl's dorm door. However your campus does it, the excitement of receiving your new bid is universal. Expect hugs, tons of photos, and the iconic "running home" moment you've heard all about!
New Member Meetings - Before you’re initiated, you’ll attend new member meetings
(which are actually way more fun than they sound!). Think of them as a crash course in everything sorority life—learning about your chapter’s history and traditions while bonding with your fellow pledge class members. You’ll leave each meeting knowing more about your sorority and feeling even closer to your new sisters.
Chapter Meetings - Once you’re initiated, you’ll attend regular chapter meetings, where important sorority business is discussed. But don’t worry—it’s not all serious! These meetings keep you in the loop about upcoming events, fun socials, and philanthropy opportunities. Plus, they’re a great excuse to see all your sisters in one place, exchange funny stories, and maybe even sneak in some post-meeting ice cream runs.
Big/Little Reveal - One of the most exciting moments of your new member experience is getting your Big! A Big is like a mentor, friend, and big sister all in one. Before the reveal, the excitement is electric—hints, anonymous gifts, and fun activities keep you guessing. Then, the big moment arrives, and you finally find out who your Big is! Cue the screaming, hugging, and endless Insta-worthy photos. From that moment on, you and your Big (plus any other members of your sorority family) are inseparable, bonding over cute gifts, coffee dates, and special moments.
Initiation - Initiation is the moment you officially become a sister of your sorority, and it’s nothing short of magical. While the details are a secret (and trust us, it makes it even more special), you’ll experience something meaningful that connects you to generations of sisters before you. It’s a time to reflect on your journey, embrace your sorority’s values, and celebrate your lifelong sisterhood. Get ready for an emotional and unforgettable night!
Date Parties and Socials - Your first year in a sorority wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a date party! Date parties are usually themed and are your chance to go all out—pick the perfect outfit, bring a fun date (or go with your besties), and dance the night away. Whether it’s a glamorous formal, a hilarious costume party, or a casual outdoor bash, these nights are always full of laughter, dance moves, and memories that will last forever.
Parents Weekend - Parents Weekend is a time to share your sorority experience with your family. Most sororities host fun-filled events like brunches, tailgates, and events with your sisters. It’s the perfect opportunity to give your family a taste of your sorority experience while also proving that, yes, you actually do more than just have fun in college (but let’s be real, it’s mostly fun).
Philanthropy and Sisterhood Events -Beyond the parties and socials, sororities are all about giving back and building strong bonds. You will have opportunities to volunteer for your chapter’s philanthropy, whether it’s by organizing a charity fundraiser, participating in service events, or cheering on sisters during a big philanthropy competition. And then there are sisterhood events—think movie nights, spa days, and weekend retreats—aka the best excuse to spend even more time with your new friends.
The Best Year of Your College Experience - Your first year in a sorority is packed with incredible experiences; it is when you launch those lifelong friendships and experience all the meaningful traditions. From meeting your Big to dressing up for formals, these moments make your sorority experience truly special. Embrace every opportunity, get involved, and make the most of your first year—you’ll cherish these memories forever!
💗 Kate & Sherry
