How Do Sororities Decide Who Gets a Bid: Secrets Revealed

Sororities decide who gets a bid through a careful and thoughtful selection process. They consider various factors, including the PNM’s alignment with the sorority’s values, enthusiasm for membership, engagement during recruitment events, conversational skills, academic potential, involvement in extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation (if provided), and compatibility with current members.

Sorority recruitment is an exciting and transformative experience for college women. In this comprehensive article, we’ll discuss how do sororities decide who gets a bid, uncover the factors sororities consider when extending bids, and provide valuable tips to increase your chances of receiving one. So, let’s dive in!

Understanding Sorority Recruitment

Before we explore the bid selection process, let’s gain a solid understanding of sorority recruitment itself. Formal recruitment usually takes place over a few days, during which potential new members (PNMs) visit various sorority houses and meet current members. It’s an opportunity for PNMs to learn about each sorority’s values, traditions, and philanthropic efforts while forming connections with active members. At the same time, sororities are assessing PNMs to find the best fit for their sisterhood.

The Rush Process

The process of selecting new members, commonly known as the rush process, typically occurs at the beginning of each academic year. It involves multiple rounds that allow PNMs to interact with members of different sororities and find the best fit.

Step #1: Preparing for Recruitment

Before recruitment week begins, PNMs are encouraged to research various sororities and get to know their values, philanthropy, and sisterhood.

Step #2: Open House Round

During this round, PNMs visit all the sorority houses to get a glimpse of each sisterhood’s atmosphere and meet their members.

Step #3: Philanthropy Round

In this round, PNMs learn about the philanthropic efforts of each sorority and how they contribute to the community.

Step #4: Sisterhood Round

PNMs get a deeper look into the sisterhood by engaging in activities and conversations with sorority members.

Step #5: Preference Round

This round allows PNMs to attend a maximum of two sororities and experience their unique traditions and values.

Step #6: Bid Day

The final round is where PNMs receive their bids and decide which sorority they want to join.

How Do Sororities Decide Who Gets a Bid: True Fact

The decision-making process for extending bids is thorough and thoughtful. Sororities aim to identify PNMs who align with their values, demonstrate genuine interest, and exhibit potential for meaningful contributions to the sisterhood. Here are the key factors sororities consider:

#1. First Impressions Matter

The recruitment process begins with first impressions. PNMs should come prepared, dressed appropriately, and with an open mind. A warm and friendly demeanor goes a long way in creating a positive first impression.

#2. Alignment with Values

Sororities hold specific values and missions that guide their activities. They look for PNMs who resonate with these core principles and show genuine enthusiasm for upholding them.

#3. Engagement and Enthusiasm

Active participation during recruitment events and genuine enthusiasm for sorority life are highly valued. Sororities seek PNMs who are excited about the prospect of joining their sisterhood.

#4. Conversation Skills

The ability to engage in meaningful conversations is crucial. PNMs who can express themselves clearly, actively listen, and ask thoughtful questions tend to leave a lasting impression.

#5. Academic Potential

Academic excellence is a priority for most sororities. While they understand that college can be demanding, PNMs who show dedication to their studies are often preferred.

#6. Involvement and Leadership

Sororities seek women who have been actively involved in their high schools or communities and have demonstrated leadership qualities. These experiences indicate the potential for contributions to the sorority.

#7. Recommendations and References

Letters of recommendation from alumnae or current members can positively influence a PNM’s chances of receiving a bid. They provide additional insights into the PNM’s character and potential.

#8. Diversity and Inclusivity

Sororities value diversity and inclusivity within their membership. They aim to create a welcoming environment for women from various backgrounds.

#9. Philanthropic Alignment

Sororities are committed to philanthropy, and they seek PNMs who share a passion for giving back to the community.

#10. Compatibility with Current Members

Sororities consider how well a PNM would fit in with the existing sisterhood. They seek individuals who will contribute positively to the dynamics of the group.

#11. Recruitment Counselors’ Input

During the recruitment process, PNMs are assigned to recruitment counselors who offer guidance and insight. Sororities may seek input from these counselors when making bid decisions.

#12. Sorority’s Current Needs

Sometimes, sororities may have specific membership needs, such as a desire for members with particular talents or interests.

#13. Alumnae Involvement

The sorority’s alumnae may play a role in the selection process, especially during formal recruitment.

#14. Social Media Presence

Sororities may review PNMs’ social media accounts to ensure their online presence aligns with the sorority’s values.

Sorority Membership Selection Criteria

Each sorority has its own set of selection criteria, but some common factors influence the decision-making process:

#1. Quotas and Potential New Member (PNM) Lists

Sororities may have a predetermined quota for new members or use PNM lists to manage recruitment numbers.

#2. Scoring Systems

Some sororities use scoring systems to objectively evaluate PNMs based on different criteria.

#3. Selection Committee

A selection committee consisting of sorority members may collectively make decisions about extending bids.

#4. Legacy Status

Legacy status, where a PNM has a family member who was a member of the sorority, might be a consideration in some cases.

#5. Membership Acceptance Policy

Sororities may have specific policies regarding the acceptance of new members.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Receiving a Bid

The sorority recruitment process can be competitive, but there are several things you can do to enhance your chances of receiving a bid:

Tips #1: Do Your Research

Before recruitment begins, familiarize yourself with each sorority on your campus. Understand their values, philanthropic efforts, and involvement opportunities.

Tips #2: Be Authentic

Be yourself during recruitment events. Authenticity is key, and sororities value genuine connections.

Tips #3: Stay Positive and Open-Minded

The recruitment process can be overwhelming, but maintaining a positive attitude and an open mind will help you navigate it with grace.

Tips #4: Prepare for Conversations

Practice conversational skills and prepare a few questions to ask sorority members during recruitment events.

Tips #5: Dress Appropriately

Follow the dress code for each recruitment event to make a positive impression.

Tips #6: Show Interest in Each Sorority

Attend events for all sororities to demonstrate your genuine interest in getting to know each sisterhood.

Bottom Line

Sorority recruitment is an exciting journey that leads to a lifelong sisterhood. Understanding how sororities decide who gets a bid provides valuable insights to prospective members. Remember to be authentic, showcase your best qualities, and explore all opportunities during the recruitment process. No matter the outcome, the experience itself is incredibly rewarding, allowing you to build lasting friendships and embrace personal growth.

How Do Sororities Decide Who Gets a Bid: FAQs With Answers