A Letter From Our Alumni
Dear Mom/Dad/Family/Caregivers,
I am reaching out to you today as a father of a former sorority member, who also has the privilege of working with students at Southeast Missouri State University. I want to briefly share my thoughts as a father and an University administrator on the value of joining a sorority for your daughter.
First and foremost, I understand that the transition from high school to college can be an overwhelming and challenging time for both students and parents alike. When my daughter expressed her interest in joining a sorority, I was thankful she was looking at ways to connect with other students at the university as she began her college experience.
Perhaps the most significant advantage she realized while active in her chapter was the strong sense of belonging and sisterhood that flourished within the sorority. Through shared values, common goals, and a genuine commitment to each other's growth, my daughter found a tight-knit group of friends, who became like her second family. This support network offered her guidance, encouragement, and a safe space where she could navigate the challenges of college life.
Additionally, the sorority provided numerous opportunities for personal and professional development. From leadership roles within the organization to community service initiatives, my daughter was able to enhance her skills, build her resume, and make a positive impact in her community. Shortly after she graduated, she was asked by an employer about her sorority experience as the hiring officer understood the values and skills being in a sorority provides to their members.
As a father, my only concern as she began college was for my daughter to excel academically, socially, and emotionally during her time at Southeast. I can say with complete confidence that my daughter’s experience as a sorority member enhanced her college experience, and I am thankful she had such amazing opportunities while a student at Southeast.
Sorority Dad
Bruce S.
Dear Parents & Caregivers,
As a fellow parent, I understand the mixed emotions and concerns that may arise when your child expresses interest in joining Greek Life. When I first enrolled at SEMO, I, too, had reservations and uncertainties about what this journey would entail for me. However, looking back, I can confidently say that Greek Life has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
Through my involvement in a sorority, I discovered a newfound sense of confidence and self-assurance that I never knew I possessed. The support and encouragement of my Sorority Sisters empowered me to pursue my goals with unwavering determination and to realize my full potential. They stood by me every step of the way, propelling me to achieve things I had only ever dreamed of accomplishing.
When my own daughter followed in my footsteps and enrolled at SEMO, I wholeheartedly encouraged her to explore the opportunities within Greek Life. Witnessing the immense benefits and personal growth that I had experienced firsthand, I knew that joining a sorority would provide her with a supportive community, lifelong friendships, and invaluable leadership skills.
Indeed, my daughter's journey through Greek Life has been nothing short of remarkable. Not only has she formed lasting bonds with her Sorority Sisters, but she has also honed her leadership abilities and cultivated a strong sense of self-assurance. Today, as she prepares to graduate from law school and embark on her career path as the only female attorney at a prestigious firm, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the role that Greek Life has played in shaping her into the confident and capable individual she has become.
I share this personal story with you not to persuade or influence your decision, but rather to offer insight into the profound impact that Greek Life can have on your child's personal and professional development. While I understand the apprehensions that may accompany this decision, I encourage you to embrace the possibilities and opportunities that Greek Life has to offer.
Ultimately, the decision to join a sorority or fraternity is a deeply personal one, and I trust that you will support your child in making the choice that is right for them. Whether they choose to embark on this journey or pursue other avenues, I am confident that they will find their path to personal growth and fulfillment.
Thank you for considering the invaluable role that Greek Life can play in your child's collegiate experience.
Warm regards,
Chandra Hussey
Dear Parents & Guardians,
My choice to become a member of a Greek organization and share that journey with my children has been incomparable. Reflecting on my own experience, I recognize the transformative influence that membership in the Greek community can have on one's life. Over three decades later, I've been fortunate to watch my daughters also benefit from this rewarding experience.
Deciding to join a Greek organization is a significant step, one that considers your child's interests and aspirations for their college years and beyond. At Southeast Missouri State, the Greek community offers students an intimate and immediate sense of belonging on campus. It is a close-knit network of students sharing similar interests and values, forming enduring friendships that transcend their college years.
Moreover, the Greek community at Southeast Missouri State upholds rigorous standards for academic excellence and professional development. Each organization is deeply committed to serving the community through various philanthropic initiatives. Additionally, Greek associations offer unparalleled networking opportunities that can profoundly benefit your child's future endeavors.
In essence, joining a Greek organization at Southeast Missouri State offers your child a unique blend of community, academic support, service opportunities, and networking possibilities that will enrich their college experience and set them on a path towards future success. My experience as a member of SEMO’s Greek community is one I will continue to cherish.
Warm regards,
Anita Eby
Hello Future Greek Life Parents/Caregivers!!
“Going Greek” can sometimes be a foreign or scary thing for parents to think about when sending your student to college…
But what can Greek Life do for your student? It is so much more than friendship. It’s learning leadership skills, having accountability partners in academic success, gaining interpersonal skills, organizational skills, a heart for philanthropy, and networking in their professional fields. Every Greek organization has an amazing support system through volunteer advisors and sisters who are past their collegiate years. These individuals know the importance of these programs and organizations. They volunteer their time to help guide and support the chapter members in anything they may need. I have had the privilege to be a chapter advisor for the last 8 years and it has been so rewarding for me to see these students grow and flourish in their organizations. I am so excited to welcome your student to their new organization this Fall! We are so ready to be their support system away from home and show them what being Greek really means; a lifelong relationship with the most amazing students at SEMO!!
Warm regards,
Alarie Ornburn