Greek Row buzzed with excitement on Aug. 27, at the University of South Alabama as new students eagerly anticipated their sorority placements on Bid Day. The annual Panhellenic sorority event signified a milestone for freshmen and upperclassmen alike, who gathered to celebrate the beginning of their sisterhood journeys. Bid Day marked the end of a week-long waiting period for prospective sorority members and the beginning of a new chapter in their college careers.

For Sunny Blackwood, a freshman studying elementary education, the prospect of sisterhood holds a deep significance. “Sisterhood means a group of girls I can rely on and who will hold me accountable. I am the oldest sibling with no sisters, so this is really special for me,” said Blackwood. The recruitment process begins with orientation. This allows the girls to make their final decision on whether or not they want to rush. At orientation, they go over financial responsibilities, the commitment it takes to being in a sorority and more. 

Zoe Brown, a senior nursing major in Alpha Gamma Delta said, “Being in Alpha Gam has really changed me as a whole and made me a better woman. These women empower me and help me become the best version of myself. I’ve met my future bridesmaids and lifelong friends through this experience.”

The Panhellenic sororities to choose from are Chi Omega, Phi Mu, Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Gamma Delta and Kappa Delta. On the second day, an open house allows the rushees to visit all five of the sorority houses on campus.

For Emily Jansen, a sophomore majoring in communication studies with a minor in marine sciences, the values of Alpha Omicron Pi are rooted within her. “Scholarships, character, college loyalty, dignity and ambition are so important—not only as an AOPi but in general. These values are central to who I am and what I strive to be,” said Jansen.

On day three, “Philanthropy Day,” rushees were able to visit four sorority houses of their choice to learn about each chapter’s chosen philanthropy. Each sorority and fraternity have a philanthropy that they support through donating money or directly volunteering. 

Chi Omega’s Grace Anne Taylor, a junior majoring in health promotions, talked about the authentic connections she’s witnessed within her chapter. “I feel like Chi Omega has so many genuine relationships. There is no stereotypical person that calls Chi O their home. Our sisterhood is filled with many musical instruments that make up a beautiful symphony,” said Taylor.

Day four, “Sisterhood Day,” allows the girls to visit three sorority houses of their choice. This rush event is for exploring what each chapter’s sisterhood is like. This is the round where rushees get to see the personalities of each house shine.

Ava Dyal, a freshman majoring in speech and hearing sciences, shared her motivation for participating in recruitment. “I wanted to put myself out there and longed for that sisterhood. Kappa Delta was just the best option for me—everyone was amazing, and the community service aspect is a bonus,” she said.

Day five, “Preference Day”  is the final day of rush week. On this day, potential members choose their top two houses to visit and the girls start making final commitments to which chapter they are joining. It is a representation of the sororities and rushees growing seriousness of one another. 

Bid Day, however, is the peak of the recruitment process. On Aug. 27, the new girls arrived at Hancock Whitney Stadium, where they finally opened their bids to reveal which sorority they would call “home.”  The new members ran from the stadium to their respective houses on Greek Row. The sororities warmly welcomed them with t-shirts, bags, and a variety of accessories. The celebration featured a pop-up boutique, bounce houses, a popsicle stand, a lemonade stand and more. Bid Day ignites the excitement of joining a sorority, but also celebrates the months of hard work and anticipation. The event was a display of community, sisterhood and the beginning of lifelong friendships for the University of South Alabama’s newest sorority members. 

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