Wednesday, October 28, 2015

SO, YOU WANT TO BE GREEK?



Photo taken from HBCULifeStyle.com

The do's and don'ts of aspiring to be Greek.

1. Don't tell anybody! Discretion is key.

In undergrad, I met several people that wanted to pledge an organization just to change their mind at the last minute. Some were even rejected by the organization they initially wanted to join so they ended up pledging something else. This makes you look fickle. So instead of telling everybody (especially on the internet) that you are a future AKA, keep your mouth zipped.

2. Do your research!

Before I pledged my sorority, I researched ALL GLOS. Predominantly white ones, Latino-based ones, NPHC and Non-NPHC. Don't just pledge an org because of their stereo-types or because everybody is doing it. Research all the orgs so you can make an informed decision.

3. Do look beyond the hype.

Stepping and strolling is all fun and games but being a part of a GLO is so much more than the partying. Don't join just because this group steps good, or because this groups look better. Base your decision on the impact the org is having in your local community and the national community.

4. Do have prior community service experience.

Before joining an org, you should already have leadership skills that you've developed through community service. This will make you an attractive candidate for membership.

5. Do look the part!

Being a part of an org requires you to look the part. You wouldn't go to a job interview in jeans and a t-shirt. Don't go to an org's event looking shabby. Unfortunately, we live in a world where image matters. How you dress is how you will be addressed.

6. Don't lose your identity.

Joining an org should enhance your positive qualities. It should inspire you to be a better version of yourself. Not a carbon copy of somebody else. Don't stop talking to your old friends. Don't stop going to church. Don't let it change your genuine self. Stay humble.

7. Don't be discouraged.

You may not get an invitation to the org that you initially want to join. Don't fret! Try again! Worst case scenario is that you can join at the graduate level once you have your undergrad degree. If it's in your heart, it's worth the wait.

8. Do save your money!

It cost money to join a GLO so make sure you save your difference checks so that you can actually pay for it, unless you have a sponsor. Hopefully, you will be able to save for multiple years of activism so you can remain active after you graduate (BGLO).

9. Do prepare for the interview.

Look up interesting facts about your org of choice to improve your chance of having a successful interview. Displaying your knowledge of the org's history shows that you are a serious candidate. Also, highlight unique things that you can bring to the organization and how you plan to use those skills if you are chosen to be a member.

10. Do be yourself!

Everyone can tell if you are being fake. Also, go for the org that fits your personality style. Look at the national level and see if you want to be associated with that orgs history and notable members. At the same time, realize that as you grow older, you may not want to be associated with the superficial image that the organization portrays.

BONUS!

Pray about it and make the most of your experience.

Monday, October 26, 2015

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc's Rising Star, Sam White, speaks out against police brutuality on social media



I have been seeing tweets by Sam White about injustices for a few months now. I thought I was following him but I wasn't. So, after reading his tweets on #AssaultAtSpringValleyHigh, I felt the time was nigh to follow him and recognize him for influencing change. I don't think I need to justify why I'm featuring him in my Celebrity Greeks blog. I mean, he has 105K+ likes on Facebook, 50K+ Twitter followers, 277K+ followers on Instagram and a half million views of him shimmying on Youtube. I need Twitter to verify him already. He's handsome, he's charming, and he's intelligent. Read his tweets below. Sam White is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Follow him on Instagram and twitter @samwhiteout.