I’m always struck by how quickly things change from semester to semester. Throughout my college career, I’ve seen friends swap rooms, styles, tastes and even cliques, and at times I find myself nostalgic for the dorm daze of my underclassman experience. Those were days when everything was new and exciting, and we thought nothing would ever change.
Freshman will quickly come to realize that, at this age, change is the only constant as we all continue our quest for self- actualization. You may wake up one day to find that your best friend, hall mate or even your roommate has meandered down his/her own path, leaving you behind to ponder how things changed so much right under your nose.
This bleak realization may cause you to wonder how you can make sure your friends don’t grow apart. Well, the only surefire way is to make a steadfast commitment to grow together. Sounds simple enough right?
This is the exact principle upon which Greek systems all over the country are founded and is exactly why I joined a fraternal organization. It’s my experience that a group of people behind you who share common experiences, goals and an unshakable commitment to each other makes personal growth that much more attainable. It is easy to feel detached, apathetic or complacent when your only responsibilities are two classes a day and your Call of Duty kill ratio.
The trick lies in finding out how to motivate your self to achieve greatness, to rise above the status quo and boldly take a new step forward each day. I found this in the Greek system and the responsibility and structure it provides. I don’t intend to insinuate that this is the only way to make or keep friends, because that would be plainly untrue. What is true is that the principles and tenants of Greek life transcend friendship. I have friends every all over the world, from Arkansas to Argentina. I have brothers in Gorham.
Was that first semester less than fulfilling? Did you have trouble packing up your bags and trooping back to the dorms? If so, take your time and Rush already! Second semester is well underway and the USM Greek organizations are opening their doors and chapters to potential new members. Rush season consists of formal events in which students are given to opportunity to meet members of the existing Greek organizations.
Every organization has their own rushes, which are advertised on campus, but you will find that Greek students are always approachable and accommodating. The letters we wear, which mean more than I can explain, are a calling card, an invitation to conversation. So if you have a question, find your nearest Greek and fire away. It seems prudent to clarify that rush season isn’t a commitment, a decision or an obligation and that anybody is welcome and encouraged to rush.
If you are looking for a surefire way to become a more engaged student with a stronger connection to the campus and community than look no farther than the Greek system.
Patrick O’Reilly is a therapeutic recreation major in his junior year and a member of the Iota Nu chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity here at USM.