Zara

From Bid Day to Convention

Zara Siddiqui

The room was filled with women of all ages: some were in their 40’s, some in their 20’s, and some of them were even in their 80’s. All of these women were proudly wearing their badges and smiling at each other as they discussed memories from their collegiate experience in AOII. For a second, I felt out of place, but then one thought eradicated my initial doubt: all of these women are my sisters.

Nine months before I attended AOII’s International Convention in Los Angeles, I was a hesitant new member. After bid day, I remember I was feeling unsure about staying in AOII because I was worried that I wouldn’t enjoy Greek life. Before I took any action, I told myself that I needed to give all of my sisters a chance and that there was a true reason that I got into AOII.

Over the course of my new member period, I challenged myself to learn as much about my sisters as possible. After every discussion I had with my sisters, I would walk away with a good feeling I never had experienced before—I felt that I experienced the purest form of friendship and sisterhood.

No matter who I interacted with, I felt comfortable and valued. For instance, whenever I would host my radio show, DJing in an empty basement studio on Friday nights, I would instantaneously light up when our VPC, Erin, would text me during the show telling me how much she enjoyed my mixes or when my big and twin would tune into my show and text me on Air.

My sisters were also very encouraging about my interest in leadership positions. Many of them guided me, listened to my ideas, and contributed more ideas. My sisters, perhaps unknowingly, built my confidence within two quarters. With all of this encouragement, I stepped up to attend the International Convention because I wanted to see the lasting effects of this impactful sisterhood.

Although my initial impression of Convention was overwhelming, I can honestly say that all AOII sisters, regardless of their age, geographic region, or college, have three amazing qualities: diversity, intellectuality, and kindness. Every woman I spoke to at convention was equally passionate about her experience as collegiate member, and most importantly, how her sisterhood impacted her character. I can truly say that my first year experience as an AOII has given me better qualities as a leader, a sibling, a daughter, and a friend. I am thankful to have all 107 delta rhos in my life and I look forward to the many memories to come.

Harleigh

Fresh Start

Harleigh Schneider

While I never had a “Why AOII Story” or a profound Cinderella moment with a ‘the shoe fits’ feeling, I can recall a million and one reasons why I chose AOII.

College is a huge reset button where you can start over and break from your high school mold. We use this fresh start as an opportunity to present ourselves in a new light. We try new things, meet new people and find out what we are passionate about. I really wanted to give sorority life a try but I was concerned that it would ruin my fresh start. So many people have different ideas of what sorority girls are and I didn't want to be defined by one organization.

Two years later, I know that my sisters and the Panhellenic community didn’t define me in a negative or narrowing way, but instead they gave me an amazing opportunity. AOII has allowed me to be around amazing women with character, values and compassion. Our diverse interests allowed me to explore and try new things. Without my sisters, I would not have the amazing college experience I have today.

My sisters in AOII have been teachers and role models, exemplifying fierce, unreserved love, innovation, respect, and knowledge. I realize now that true long-lasting friendships don't always begin with a profound Cinderella moment, but rather little moments over time that build into a beautiful and tenacious sisterhood.

AOII didn't stick me into a box or ruin my fresh start. It's a privilege to be able to define myself as a sister of AOII because that means I am part of an organization that was founded on the basis of friendship.