Service sorority offers a unique greek experience

 

The Interfraternity Council began membership recruitment for spring 2012, with informational and social events all chapters participate in to provide interested students the opportunity to meet active members from several fraternities and sororities.

 

While these Greek organizations attract many N.C . State students, the University hosts several non-traditional Greek organizations seeking to attract students who may be looking for something different in Greek Life.

 

One such organization is Omega Phi Alpha, a non-Panellenic sorority focused on service and sisterhood. Chater President Elizabeth Abernethy is looking forward to hosting another season of rush.

 

“Rush is uniquely set up for Omega Phi Alpha as a two week process during both semesters that involves a ‘meet and greet’ week followed by the formal recruitment week,” Abernethy said.

 

During the meet and greet week, interested women are welcome to attend events when they can, meet the sisters and get better informed about the organization before formal recruitment begins.

 

Omega Phi Alpha is unique to the University, as it is the first and only community service-based sorority on campus, according to Abernethy .

 

“Founded in April of 2010, the Alpha Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Alpha is based on the cardinal principles of friendship, leadership and community service,” Abernethy said.

 

The organization works to help the community at a national and international level through six areas of service. Omega Phi Alpha sisters contribute to the University community, the community at large, the members of the sorority and the nations of the world. Their national permanent project serves mental health and the national president’s project changes every year. This year, the theme is “Preserving Omega Phi Alpha’s History.”

 

Julia Maurer, senior in international studies, said the experience is worthwhile.

 

“It is a great way to get involved in the University, give service to community and make great friends,” Maurer said.

 

Though the organization is classified as a service sorority, members balance those efforts with an emphasis on sisterhood.

 

“What sets Omega Phi Alpha apart from the many other service organizations on campus is its duality, being both a thriving service organization and a sorority. Although our primary focus is placed on service, we also have a lot of fun,” Abernethy said. “Even though we are not considered a ‘social sorority’ and we are a ‘dry’ organization, meaning that we can’t have any alcohol at any of our functions or events. We enjoy all of the same events and activities as our larger Panhellenic friends, including retreats, sisterhood events, formals and more.”

 

Abernethy stressed that, as a sorority, the level of commitment involved is much higher than in many other service clubs on campus. Omega Phi Alpha has weekly meetings, semesterly dues, a requirement of at least 30 service hours per semester, and a pledging period of one full semester before becoming an activated member.

 

Even with the possible stress of those requirements, sisters agree rushing is well worth the effort. Judy Sisouvong , sophomore chemistry major, says Omega Phi Alpha is the best of both worlds.

 

“People should join Omega Phi Alpha because it is a great way to give back to others while still creating a bonding experience with lifetime sisters,” Sisouvong said.

 

Kayla DeWald , sophomore in middle education, rushed in the fall of 2011 and thinks the organization is a good networking tool.

 

“Rushing gave me the opportunity to meet people with similar interests, but it didn’t take up too much time where I couldn’t also do other things. It also wasn’t as expensive as some social organizations, so I felt like it was a good fit for me,” DeWald said.

 

Omega Phi Alpha’s meet and greet week will begin Jan. 23. For information about the events, interested students are encouraged to join the Omega Phi Alpha, Alpha Lambda Chapter Facebook page.