Panhellenic Orientation

On Friday, August 8, you will get your first glimpse of Sorority life at South Alabama. The Parent and Daughter Reception is scheduled to start at 4:30 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom. Come and enjoy while our Recruitment Counselors explain to you what it is to be Greek at South Alabama.

You and your parents will have a chance to pick up brochures and ask alumnae questions about each chapter. At this reception you will also have the opportunity to meet your recruitment counselor as well as other women participating.

What to wear...
This session is very informal, so dress casually and be comfortable.

Ice Water Teas

What to Expect...
The first night of Recruitment is your first glimpse of all five sororities individually. You will be going to each chapter house this night for a simple “meet and greet.” You will spend twenty-five minutes at each house meeting a few sisters and being introduced to their sorority. These parties are fast paced and full of energy, but don’t feel intimidated. Expect a lot of singing, clapping, and smiling faces. Everyone inside the houses is really excited to meet you for the first time.

What to Wear...
These parties are pretty relaxed, so dress casually and comfortable. Make sure to wear clothing that is suitable for hot weather. Nice pants, Capri’s, or a cute skirt or sundress would be great! While it is important for you to be comfortable, shorts and a t-shirt are a no-no. Remember this is the sorority’s first impression of you, so dress tastefully!

What to Talk About...
Parties are very short tonight; so don’t worry if you don’t have time for an in-depth conversation. Ask the women you talk to about Greek life in general or about her particular sorority. Find out about their scholarship, socials, and sisterhood. Be sure to tell about yourself as well. Each sorority wants to get to know you as much as possible in the short time that they are allowed to spend with you. Have fun and be yourself! Keep in mind that the sororities want you to like them just as much as you want them to like you!

Philanthropy

What to Expect...
Philanthropy parties will let you experience first-hand the importance of service in Greek life at South Alabama. During these parties, you will work side by side with sorority members on creative philanthropy projects that pertain to that sorority’s individual philanthropy. The sororities will then donate the completed crafts to their charity. These parties give you a chance to learn about the sororities in a fun and interactive way; you will also be contributing to the community!

What to Talk About...
The theme for Philanthropy parties is service and giving to others. These parties are a great chance to talk more in depth with the sorority women while you work to help others. Take advantage of this time to ask questions about each group’s service projects and what they do on campus. You’ll find out about a lot of things that go on at South Alabama.

What to Wear...
These parties are the most informal of all. Shorts or a skirt and a nice shirt would be great for crafting. Remember though, you are still impressing people, so dress appropriately.

Sisterhood

What to Expect...
Sisterhood theme parties are by far the most fun night of Recruitment! The entertainment atmosphere during this round of parties makes it a favorite for many women. Each sorority you visit will perform a skit that tells what makes them unique. This is also the day when many sororities choose to show a slide show with many of the sisters enjoying different activities on South Alabama’s campus and in the Greek community. Tonight will help you better understand how the women feel about their sorority and what it can mean to you.

What to Wear...
Remember that these parties are performances, so dress as if you are going to a play. Address suitable for church or a nice dinner is recommended. Most women dress up their look a little more this round, but keep in mind that this is not the most formal night. Save your best for Preference night.

What to Talk About...
This round is a special time to communicate. Parties are forty-five minutes and give you the opportunity to get to know members a little better. Since this is the last night before Preference, you should start thinking about where you feel most comfortable.

Preference

What to Expect...
Preference parties are the most meaningful night of Recruitment. These parties are a solemn and serious occasion where you will determine which sorority you would like to call your own. Listen carefully to the songs and words you hear. The sisters are trying to express to you what it is like to be a part of their sorority. This round can be the most emotional step of the Recruitment process.
After the parties you will return to the Student Center to sign your Preference card. Think back on the previous parties and recall what you liked best about each house. This will help you decide where you fell most comfortable. The most important thing to remember is to be sure to base your decision on your own feelings.

What to Talk About...
During this time, you should listen carefully to what the sorority women tell you about their ideals of sisterhood. Pay close attention and choose wisely! Your decision tonight will change your life forever!

What to Wear...
Preference parties are the most formal of all. Dress in your Sunday best, or even a nice cocktail dress.