<p>I'm an incoming sophomore and i decided to go through rush this year! I wasn't too educated about the greek system during freshman year, but after seeing how active sororities are on campus I figured I should rush. I'm really nervous since I don't really know anyone that's greek and I heard that being a sophomore puts me at a disadvantage amongst a rush group of mostly freshmen. Basically I'd like to ask any UF greeks here on the board for advice. I'll welcome any advice ^_^ Thanks!</p>
<p>UF’s greek system is big and very popular. There are definitely some sororities that will discriminate against you for being a sophomore but there are many others for which it will not matter. My daughter is senior and she went thru recruitment as a sophomore. Although she did not get her first choice of sorority initially, she accepted a bid to sorority that she had also liked at the time and it turned out to be a wonderful experience for her. She has made fabulous friendships and has really found her niche at UF. Go for it gatorgirl19 and please remember to keep an open mind about all the sororities. Try not to listen to the “trash talk” that some of the other girls will gossip about the sororities. Be yourself and try to find a home where you can be yourself…you will be happiest if you do that. You can PM me if you have any questions. FYI: Right now on campus (until after bid day) the sorority girls are forbidden from wearing their letters or revealing what sororities they are from (in an attempt to not prejudice or influence potential new members). Go on the sorority websites to see their videos/bios to see what each one is about.</p>
<p>Thanks for the advice! Yeah, I’ve read up on their websites and checked out their philanthropies and activities. I’m definitely keeping an open mind to all of them. It’s kinda easy for me since I have kind of a blank slate when it comes to greek life lol</p>
<p>How much do letters of recommendation from old alums of the sorority matter in the process?</p>
<p>It depends on the sorority. Letters of rec. might be helpful. My daughter didn’t have any but a friend’s daughter did use some.</p>
<p>yeah i’ve heard that they’re very helpful for all the big greek schools in the south.</p>
<p>I have experience in this area and seiclan is right: There are some sororities that will drop you immediately if you aren’t a freshman. It’s completely unfair and wrong, but many do it anyway. In fact, some sororities will find very cruel and superficial reasons to drop girls based on looks, clothing, weight, etc. Don’t let it get to you. Be yourself and keep your chin up and you will end up in the right place. Don’t listen to the perceptions around campus of certain sororities and don’t listen to the other girls either. </p>
<p>Should you end up in a sorority you joined simply because of its’ reputation and what other people said during rush, you’ll regret it, and trust me, you don’t want that feeling. If you’re rushing because you want real, true friendships and you want true sisterhood that has nothing to do with material possessions or keeping up appearances, then follow your heart and you will be happy on bid day. When you go to each house and see and meet the sisters, really ask yourself if you could fit in there. Not when you’re looking and feeling your best, but on those days when you’re at your absolute worst. If you have any more specific questions, feel free to message me. Good luck.</p>