I am a homebody, and being just four hours away from South Alabama where I call home was harder than I ever expected it would be. Why do I love my sisters? They are a unique, incredible, new kind of home. They helped make Birmingham my second home by sharing their lives and loves with me— from yummy food to ministries and organizations that will define my college career and beyond. When I was a junior in high school, I attended a Junior Preview Day at Samford.
While there, my dad and I met an adorable sophomore named Hannah who was a Student Recruiter, and she helped us feel welcome, got to know us, and answered lots of questions. She even gave me her phone number in case I ever had any more questions about Samford— I had plenty and reached out a couple times before deciding to come. When I got to campus to move in, we reconnected and I am so thankful.
I pledged Chi Omega and hung out with Hannah on Bid Day, then she invited me to church and told me about an after school program where she volunteered through the church. After a tough first semester, I finally took her invitation and visited Iron City Church and volunteered one afternoon at the YMCA Kids Club where members of the church show up every afternoon to play, read, help with homework, and demonstrate love to the kids and staff. Every time I went back, I seemed to meet another Samford Chi Omega or an alumnus. I thought, wow, how cool is it that I am part of this organization that really does serve!
All chapters have great philanthropy partnerships, and many raise large amounts of money, but few can be seen serving in the community on a weekly or even daily basis. I though it was so cool when, on Philanthropy Night, Chi O said they were involved in local philanthropies and ministries on top of their incredible work with Make-A-Wish, but I have truly gotten to see these women live that out.
Beyond this one opportunity, my sisters are serving all around the campus, city, and world. From Connections Weekend, to the office of the President, to the Chi O house hallways, we plug in, dig roots, and give back. We serve each other and those around us out of an overflow of Christ’s love.
I truly never thought I’d care very much about Greek letters or a “sisterhood,” but I am so thankful that I was invited into a community that shares passions, opens doors for me to make the most of my years here, and walks alongside me in the pursuit of Christlikeness. Hannah recently graduated, but there have been countless others who have made a meaningful impact on my story… and I am ready to do the same for PC ’19!
