I Took A Chance On Delta Zeta...

When I first signed up for recruitment, I had no idea what I was getting myself into and expected the worst. I had no experience with Greek life and thought sorority girls would be exactly like the stereotypes in movies. I grew up a tomboy and knew nothing about false eyelashes or curling hair. I was (and still am) studious and passionate about a healthy lifestyle. I was a sophomore at the time, and no matter how hard I tried or which organizations I joined, I couldn't seem to make those genuine friendships I was looking for during my freshman year. So, I signed up for Panhellenic recruitment - just to see. I mean, what did I have to lose? Needless to say, I went into the first day of recruitment with a very skeptical and admittedly narrow-minded attitude. Girls were chatting away everywhere, comparing this and that, talking about things I had never heard of. Was this worth it? I felt overwhelmed, but always put my best foot forward. The week was a blur of stress, emotion, and a constant state of doubt. Then bid day came, and I opened my envelope to read the name of sorority that I did not put as my number one choice. I felt so disappointed and confused. Looking over at all of the other girls so excited and smiling, I had no idea what to do. I decided to try anyway.

I am now writing this two years into Delta Zeta, currently a senior with a group of friends that I am sure will be by my side the day of my wedding and for the rest of my life. This wasn't an overnight transformation of course - it took me a while to warm up to the world of being in a sorority. I was so uncertain at the beginning and felt like I didn't fit in, but the more time I spent with the girls, the more I realized that I didn't have to fit in. They accepted me exactly for who I was, and the beauty of it was that no girl was exactly alike. But more importantly than being able to be my whole self, I was surrounded by people who pushed me to be my BEST self. I was supported and loved and encouraged by sisters who wanted me to grow and take chances. I was in a place where I could speak my mind, grow my ideas, and dance spontaneously knowing that I would never be judged. I'm not writing this in an effort to convince someone to go Greek or even go DZ, but I am writing this in hopes that someone who is also unsure about Greek life will understand that the experience is nothing like the perception, especially at the University of Houston. I write this in hopes that someone who is in doubt will take a chance on an opportunity and grow. For me, that was Delta Zeta, and I continue to grow every day because of the values and love I am surrounded by in such a genuine group of girls.

Daniela

Class of Fall 2018