A sorority is a sisterhood—but that doesn’t mean you’ll feel at home immediately. Relationships take work. If you stick with it, Greek life can be a rewarding college experience. Here's what you should know about making friends in your chapter...so you always wear your sorority letters necklace and jewelry with pride and affection.

How to Make New Friends in a Sorority

1. Volunteer to Help 

There’s always something you can do to help your sorority, whether it’s tutoring one of your sisters or cleaning the chapter room. If nothing immediately jumps to mind, ask an officer or event chair for direction. Everyone will appreciate the contribution, and you’ll feel better knowing you’ve made a difference.  

2. Introduce Yourself  

Greek life is all about putting yourself out there and meeting new people. Your sisters all pledged because they want to build lifelong friendships. If you spot someone you don’t recognize wearing letters, introduce yourself ,and strike up a conversation. You can talk about school, recent chapter events, where they’re from, or offer a compliment. Saying “Hey, I love your necklace!” will get them to smile and open up to you. 

3. Use Group Chats 

Group chat, whether you're coordinating outfits or making plans for the weekend, helps new and old friends stay in touch. Find out which app your chapter uses (WhatsApp, GroupMe, Skype, text messaging, etc.), and get involved in the exchange. Don’t try to dominate the group. Respond to others courteously, and pay attention to what they have to say. Soon enough, you’ll be in on all the inside jokes and banter.  

4. Support Your Sisters  

You’ll learn more at college if you do more than read books and attend lectures. College is also about trying new things and defining yourself. You can explore new interests by supporting your sisters whenever they get involved in a club, production, or sports. Whether it’s a lacrosse match or a Tennessee Williams play, get out and cheer on your sisters.  

5. Attend Chapter Events 

If you want to get involved in Greek life, you should attend chapter-hosted parties, of course. But also show up when there isn’t a bass thumping. Go to sorority study groups, chapter meetings, fundraisers, and recruitment functions. Even better, bring treats to share, like lattes or cookies. Food and drink always bring people together.  

Wearing letters will help you meet new sisters. Shawn Paul Jewelry in St. Louis, MO, has Greek-themed necklaces and charm bracelets with letters for every sorority, plus handmade designs for select colleges and universities. Check out their gold- and sterling silver-plated sorority jewelry online, or call (314) 368-0741 if you have questions.