Like a kiss, a letter of recommendation is a seal of approval that can make you feel like Cinderella at the ball. But not all sororities consider them equally important. In fact, the tone of a recommendation letter can make or break your chances of being accepted into a sorority. With so many sororities changing their policies on letters of recommendation, it can be difficult to navigate their expectations. Fear not, dear PNMs: in this blog post, we will unlock the secrets of sorority letters of recommendation.
First of all, not all letters of recommendation are created equal. Some sororities require letters from alumnae of a specific chapter, while others are more flexible in their requirements. Before requesting a letter, it’s important to do your research and evaluate the sorority’s letter policy. Some sororities may not require letters at all, while others may make them optional. Some may even allow non-members to submit letters on behalf of a PNM. Failure to follow the established policy may result in immediate disqualification from the recruitment process!
When requesting a letter of recommendation, it’s important to ask someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and character. This could be a former teacher, coach, or employer, but it shouldn’t be a family member. The letter should be well-written and free of grammatical errors. To avoid any awkwardness, it’s important to give your recommender plenty of notice and then thank them for their help. Remember, a letter of recommendation can be a valuable tool in making a good first impression on the sorority.
Once you’ve secured a letter of recommendation, it’s important to remember that it’s just one small piece of the puzzle. While it can be helpful to have a letter from someone who knows you well, it’s ultimately up to you to make a good impression on sorority members during recruitment. Be sincere, friendly, and confident in your interactions with actives, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the sorority’s values and traditions. Remember that the sorority will be judging you not only on the letter of recommendation, but also on your overall demeanor and fit with the chapter.
Finally, it’s important to remember that sororities are constantly evolving and changing their policies. What was true last year may not be true this year. Before the start of each recruitment season, it’s important to review the sorority’s letter of recommendation policy and adjust your approach accordingly. Stay up to date on any changes that may be announced, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from current members and alumnae.
Ultimately, letters of recommendation can be a valuable tool in the sorority recruitment process, but they are only one piece of the puzzle. Understanding the sorority’s policies and choosing the right recommender are important, but ultimately it’s up to the PNM to make a good impression on the members of the chapter. Keep these tips in mind and don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way. May the odds always be in your favor!
