There’s something about sorority recruitment that feels like the Olympics of small talk—everyone’s smiling, dressed to the nines, and trying to figure out if they belong. If you’re feeling nervous, overwhelmed, or straight-up unsure about what to expect from rush, you’re not alone.
Whether you’re 100% set on going Greek or just curious, here’s everything you need to know before stepping into sorority recruitment, straight from your unofficial rush-week big sis. We’re talking outfits, expectations, emotions, and what to do when things don’t go as planned.
💌 First: You Don’t Have to Be a “Sorority Girl” to Go Through Recruitment
Let’s kill the myth that sororities are only for a certain “type” of girl. You don’t need to look a certain way, act like Elle Woods, or be super extroverted to belong. Greek life today is full of diverse women with different passions, goals, and personalities.
What really matters:
- Are you looking for community?
- Do you want to grow your leadership skills or get involved?
- Are you open to meeting people outside your usual circle?
If yes, recruitment might be a great experience—even if you don’t end up joining a chapter.
👗 What to Wear for Each Round (That Won’t Drain Your Bank Account)
Outfits don’t need to be designer to be cute. Here’s a breakdown of what each day typically looks like and what you should wear:
🪩 Round 1: Open House / Meet & Greet
This is usually casual but still polished. You’ll meet lots of girls quickly, so comfort is key.
Wear: A sundress, romper, or cute blouse with tailored shorts
Shoes: Comfy flats or sandals (yes, you’ll be walking!)
Vibe: Polished + put-together, not overdone
💖 Round 2: Philanthropy Round
You’ll learn about each sorority’s philanthropic work. Expect more intentional convos.
Wear: A nice dress or jumpsuit that’s a step up from round 1
Accessories: Simple jewelry, light makeup
Vibe: Thoughtful, authentic, interested in what the chapter stands for
💎 Round 3: Sisterhood Round
This round gets deeper—expect emotional stories and real talk about what being in a sorority actually means.
Wear: A classy dress or outfit you feel confident in (not too trendy or flashy)
Makeup: Glowy, natural glam
Vibe: Heartfelt + personal
💐 Preference Night
It’s the final round and often the most emotional. These convos are longer and more reflective.
Wear: Cocktail dress or a classy midi dress
Shoes: Heels or nice flats—whatever you can walk in confidently
Vibe: Elegant, calm, and you
🗣 How to Prepare for the Conversations
Sorority rush = a marathon of conversations. Some will feel amazing. Others? A little awkward. That’s normal!
Conversation Starters:
- “What made you want to join your chapter?”
- “What’s something fun your sorority does every year?”
- “How did you know this was the right fit for you?”
Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Smile, listen, and be genuinely curious
- Don’t try to say what you think they want to hear
- If a convo feels off, don’t panic—it doesn’t mean the whole chapter isn’t for you
💛 What If I Get Dropped?
Okay, real talk: this part sucks. Sometimes you’ll feel a connection with a house… and then not get invited back. Or you’ll get dropped completely. It’s easy to take it personally—but please know: it’s not a reflection of your worth.
If it happens:
- Feel your feelings (yes, cry if you need to)
- Know that so many girls go through it
- Remind yourself: “Their loss. My people are still out there.”
Dropping doesn’t mean you failed. It means the match wasn’t right. Period.
🎒 Rush Week Survival Kit (a.k.a. Save-Yourself Bag)
Trust me, you’ll want to prep a little bag for each day. Here's what to pack:
- Water bottle
- Mints or gum
- Blotting sheets or powder
- Lip balm or gloss
- Mini deodorant
- Comfy backup shoes
- Portable phone charger
- Hair tie
- Confidence (yes, again—we’re not done saying it)
🧠 A Few Emotional Reminders (Because This Week Is A Lot)
💬 You’re allowed to not love every house
Some convos will click, some won’t. That’s okay. Don’t judge a chapter based on one girl—but don’t ignore red flags, either.
🙅♀️ Don’t base your self-worth on your invite list
This is about fit, not popularity. And your worth isn’t up for debate.
🧘♀️ Take care of yourself
Recruitment is draining. Eat, hydrate, sleep, and give yourself downtime between rounds.
🤝 Lean on your Rho Gamma / Pi Chi (your recruitment counselor)
They’re trained to help—and many of them went through the same rollercoaster you’re on.
💌 What If You Don’t Join a Sorority?
You are still worthy. You will still find community. You can still have a fulfilling, fun, friend-filled college experience.
Greek life is one path—but it’s not the path. If you don’t end up in a house, give yourself time, get involved elsewhere, and keep your heart open. Some of your closest college friendships might still be ahead of you—just in unexpected places.
💐 Final Word from Your Rush Week Big Sis
You don’t need to be the loudest, prettiest, or most “sorority-looking” girl to find your place. You just need to be yourself—kind, curious, open, and grounded in your worth.
Recruitment can be fun, emotional, confusing, empowering… all at once. Let it be what it is. Try your best. Stay true to you.
And know that no matter where you end up—lettered or not—you are so enough.
