When asked, “why did you join Fraternity and Sorority Life” I tend to have many different answers. There are so many great reasons to get involved in FSL.  It helps me build a sense of belonging. My sisters have been some of the best people I have ever met, and I absolutely adore them. These girls are some of the first people that I had really gotten to know on campus, and they took me into their sisterhood without a second thought.

When I first got to campus, I was nervous and if I am being honest, a little terrified. I had never been on my own before, so when my parents moved me in and said their goodbyes, it was such a nerve-racking experience. Yes, a huge part of me was excited for my newfound independence but the rest of me had no idea what to do with it. My mom had asked me before moving to college, if I would ever join a sorority and I said to her “most definitely not, I’m not the type they would be looking for”. In all honesty that’s what I thought.

Growing up I was a video game enthusiast who did girls wrestling, theatre, and a lot of art and drawing. I did think those traits would NOT make me the ideal candidate for sorority life. But when I went to New Student Convocation, I got to see all the sororities doing their chants and cheers in the crowd, and a feeling wafted over me of just wanting to be a part of that. That night I signed up for formal recruitment, and I went through the whole process.

I got into my amazing sorority and from the first event I went too, it was like I had been a part of their sisterhood for years. They helped me get my bearings in college. and gave me some solid ground to stand on. A few sisters I would like to mention are Reece Boyd, Madison Korp, Liz Mertens, Brenna Richards, CJ Knapp, Lacie Wiedemann, Em Franklin, and Ella Hayes. Both Reece and Madison are sisters that I have gotten the honor of knowing better through living in the sorority house. These two beautiful ladies have been there for me in some of my toughest times and have always been there to pick me back up. Their support and love get me through even the darkest days because their light shines brighter than any shadows I face.

Liz and Brenna, I got to know very well through this past summer as we were working as SOAR Leaders together. They showed me how to be resilient and strong even when I wanted to break down. They lift me up in ways that I don’t think they realize, and I am very lucky to also call them my sisters. Next is CJ, this gorgeous woman has one of the kindest souls I have seen. She always goes out of her way to try and make your day brighter which she always does. She has a heart of gold, and I will always be thankful for her encouraging words and hilarious rants about anything and everything.

Now for my amazing littles, Lacie and Em. These two bring me so much joy and love and they know just how to make me laugh and smile. They both are beautiful on the inside and out and they are some of my favorite people to get coffee with or go on study dates with. I am so proud to be their big sister in the sorority, and I am truly honored to have that title.

Last but certainly not least is Ella! This girl is one of the brightest and amazing sisters. Her humor and jokes are truly unmatched and her style is effortlessly cool. Her personality beams bright, and I adore that about her. These few sisters are just a peek into how having a sisterhood can be uplifting and wonderful.

Even if you are just thinking about doing recruitment, I say go for it because you never know the kind of people you will meet if you don’t at least try it. Make the jump, take the risk. You might be very grateful you did!

~Bella

Bella Kiewel, 2025 Orientation Assistant, New Student Orientation and Family Programs