do you think joining a sorority is smart? and if so, does it matter which one I would choose?

Hi Michaela! So sorry this is the first time your question is getting answered!!

This is a really great question, and my answer will be a bit biased because I was in a sorority in college, but thought I'd give my two cents anyway. I think there are a lot of factors that go into deciding whether or not to join a sorority, like; do you know anyone your age who will also be attending the school, do you have the financial means to be able to join, do you plan on getting a job or doing any other extra curricular activities and if so roughly how much time each week you'd be spending doing those things, does your school have a strong greek presence or any at all, etc.

I joined a sorority because I didn't know anyone who went to my school (University of Oregon) so I knew it would be a great and easy way to meet a bunch of friends right away. At the end of the day I loved being in a sorority. It had its ups and downs, but the support network and memories were worth it all. If you do join a sorority, I recommend trying to get the most professional development out of it as you can (kill two birds!). I held a director a position for a year and looking back, so badly wish I was more involved, if not for the learning than for my resumes sake! Another tip- don't let the social benefits consume you. There is a major social component of being in a sorority and that comes with benefits (meeting people, having fun, always having something to do, etc) and its disadvantages or as I like to call them distractions (like not spending as much time studying or going to class, dealing with more drama than you should, etc). Just make sure you stop to remember why you're there and what's really important.

I really don't think it would have mattered what sorority I was in either. I was talking with a freshman at UCSB the other day about how much we dislike the stigmas against sororities and their "ranking" at each school. It's there, but I think (I hope) it's becoming less important. You'll know right off the bat going through recruitment which sororities you want to be a part of. Just go with your gut and I promise you'll end up making the right decision for you.

I'd be happy to answer any follow up questions you may have! Wishing you the best of luck.