September 6, 2012 | Volume 1, Issue 1 | Minneapolis, MN

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With bragging rights for an upstanding nonprofit organization that reaches children from 40 different states for 19 years, Camp Heartland proves different from other sleep away camps. Displaying its individuality, the camp welcomes children who are directly and indirectly affected by HIV/AIDS. Additionally, Camp Heartland supports children with type 2 Diabetes by offering Camp 5210. The organization’s stellar support of many causes eventually led to the umbrella organization One Heartland. Maintaining Camp Heartland, while adding Camp Pacific Heartland, Journey of Hope AIDS Awareness programs, Birch Family Alliance and many more, One Heartland displays how to help a large quantity of people without compromising quality.

Crossing into another realm, Camp Heartland welcomes the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute and more than 40 University of Minnesota students from the Greek community. Monday, Aug. 13 through Friday, Aug. 17, these students explored their leadership capabilities and discovered the impact of determination. Will Foran and Dominic Greene create this powerful experience with the essential help of 10 facilitators. The activities throughout the week range from challenging team building exercises, heated debates, thoughtful discussions and inspired commitments to change. Examining the struggles the community continues to face, the sorority women and fraternity men united to define common goals. Topics that usually seem taboo and swept under the rug become transparent and impossible to ignore. This brutal honesty regarding the culture of alcohol, ARKEIO, hazing, house bashing and gossip allows the group to admit current struggles in order to discover solutions. Anger spins into determination as frustration molds into unified visions, and these leaders of the Greek community not only begin to see their potential, but also believe in it.

Creating great impact, UIFI dedicates one day to community service projects for the students to perform around the camp. This brings focus to the importance of community service and philanthropy work in general. Although Greek students may

forget it, every sorority and fraternity were built upon values of helping others and making an impact in the surrounding community, if not the world. Additionally, this is what sets the Greek community apart from other clubs and organizations. The bonds of sisterhood and brotherhood are created from core values rather than friendships based on similar interests. This community service also allows the students to give back to Camp Heartland in thanks for their endless generosity and hospitality. These volunteer projects range from staining the wooden swing set and various parts of the camp, gardening, remodeling the tool shed and many more.

Focusing on the power of community, the participating Greeks possess a clear vision of the changes they plan to see on campus. Unity acts as the main catalyst as the students realized the strength in numbers and the dismal results of contention. Taking philanthropy events as an example, while every chapter holds their individual fundraisers, the students began to imagine the inevitable success of an all-Greek philanthropy event. Even more simply, every fraternity enjoys relaxing on their patio or playing catch in their front yards, but why not extend invitations to the neighboring chapters participating in the same activities? Although 10-20 feet remain between these chapters, it’s the grudges and rumors that separate them with brick walls. Eliminating these negative attitudes and practices will eventually allow non-affiliates to eliminate the stigmas from the Greek community. With the participants of UIFI pioneering a step toward harmony, this vision will soon become a reality.

UIFI Creating Community

Sarah REEDalpha Gamma Delta

Sarah is a sophomore studying public relations. You may contact her at reed0588@umn.edu.

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I’ve been a member of the Greek community for one year, so it’s safe to say I’m fairly new to this. In that year, I experienced highs, amazing acts of kindness by my sisters, pride in myself and my chapter and extreme amounts of love. I’ve also experienced some lows, suspicions of deeper problems coming to the surface and doubts if Greek life was the right fit for me. And then I attended the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI), a week-long camp where members of the University of Minnesota Greek community addressed areas of weakness in our chapters and increased our leadership abilities.

UIFI presented more opportunities than I even knew were available to me. Not only did I gain a greater appreciation for my chapter, love for my sisters and understanding of our obstacles, but I established real friendships with other members of the Greek community.

The only way to begin tackling the issues of your chapter is by acknowledging those issues. And every chapter has them. No one wants to stand up and point out their flaws, but for improvement, for elevation, doing so is critically important. One of the facilitator’s at UIFI always told our group to “be varsity” and dig deep, past the surface level. It’s a unique and important way to look at problem solving.

Even the smallest issue, and every triumph, really, stems from our ritual. Whether we are living our ritual or not, there will be consequences, positive or negative. The oath we took and the ritual we supposedly live by are the only and entire reason we are where we are. The friendships, sisterhoods and brotherhoods, networking opportunities and leadership positions are all benefits. Usually, they’re what keep us around. But by not living our ritual, we might as well not be affiliated with our fraternity or sorority. Our brothers and sisters would just be our friends that we see outside of class. It’s a blatant statement, but it’s true.

We all took an oath that holds us accountable to our respective chapters. By not living our ritual, we are breaking that promise not just to ourselves and our brothers or sisters, but to the national organizations we are a part of.

It’s no secret that Greek life often gets a bad reputation that can be frustrating to those of us on the inside. But you have to ask yourself how you want to be perceived

and align your everyday actions with your desired positive perception.

Through UIFI, I have realized my personal values and am extremely proud with he change I’ve seen in myself. I want to bring my values and my chapter’s values to the attention of my sisters to better my chapter in even the smallest ways. It takes courage to join a values-based organization like a fraternity or sorority, and our courage is tested every day. By living our ritual we prove to ourselves, to the Greek community and to the outside community that we live our lives with purpose and integrity.

I challenge you to change the way you think about Greek life, to recruit by your chapter’s values, to know your ritual and then to live by it, and most importantly, to lead by example. We are all reaching toward the same goal of a unified, productive Greek community. Although we are members of different chapters, we are all Greek, together.

Be Varsity

Erin LEnGAsalpha Chi Omega

Erin is a junior studying journalism. You may contact her at lenga006@umn.edu.

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UIFI stands for Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute. During the week of Aug. 13, I spent five days in northern Minnesota with 50 other members of our Greek community with a goal of building better leaders, and striving to make change within our chapters and the community as a whole. Going into the week, no one really knew what to expect. There wasn’t a lot of information given besides that it was a camp to build your leadership skills as a Greek student. I, along with many of my fellow peers, went into the week open minded. The experience we were all about to receive was so much more than any of us were expecting.

The week began by being split up into small groups called your “chapter groups.” In most instances, you were the only person from your own organization in your group, forcing you to step out of your comfort zone and branch out. The motto of the week was “trust the process,” and that is exactly what you had to do. Between team building activities, large group discussions and small group conversations, each person was growing one step at a time. Each day built upon the previous. Some days were hard, having to listen to and see your community and all that you stand for be attacked. However, that only allowed each of us to feel inspired to stand up for each other and find a solution to better oneself and the rest of the Greek community.

Having your eyes opened and being able to see from both sides of the spectrum of the opinions of the Greek community allowed the group as a whole and each

individual to come up with a “blueprint,” or action plan, of the changes they wanted to instill among their own chapters and the community as a whole. Great ideas were shared and discussed, but it took critical analysis and commitment from not just one but many people to be able to potentially put these thoughts into actions. It’s been said, “It takes a village to raise a child,” as it takes a community to unite and work together to achieve a common goal.

The decided goal of this week was that we might say we are a community, but we may not always act like it. One of the main issues discussed this week was living out your values and rituals on a daily basis. The root of many of the issues we were facing, such as hazing, assault, rivalry and accountability, could easily be solved if we each took time to remember why we joined our houses, and the oaths that we took when initiated, and lived each day “earning your

badge.” I would like to challenge each of you in regards to your chapters’ values and rituals to “learn it, live it, teach it, and expect it.” In order to remove these issues and better our community, be the role model. If each of us can be held accountable to that, I can already tell we are on our way to becoming the leaders we all know we can be.

This week changed my whole mindset of our community and the person I want to be. I would recommend this program to anyone, whether you think you want to hold a position in your house or IFC/PHC or not. The knowledge you learn, and relationships you build are reason enough. I know the people I met through this program will have my back and help me with whatever task, problems or dilemmas I face, just as I will do for them. We are all brothers and sisters to one another; I encourage you to embrace it.

UIFI: UNITINg The greek COMMUNITy

MEGan hOWEPi Beta Phi

Megan is a sophomore studying journalism. You may contact her at howe0294@umn.edu.

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Stephanie Lester, Delta Gamma

Stephanie is a junior in Delta Gamma from Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin. What brings her all the way to the University of Minnesota, you ask? Besides the fantastic education and beautiful campus the U has to offer, she couldn’t help but smile when she noted how great the colors maroon and gold go together. It surely wasn’t because of the Gopher Football team. Ski-U-Mah! Any of you gentlemen wondering what made her go DG? After asking her why she loved her chapter, Stephanie explained, “These women know when something is wrong without me having to say a word. They pick me up when I’m down, and picked me up when I broke my radius and ulna in the middle of a road on the way to date party (‘80s-themed leg warmers in the ER were a nice touch.)” This girl is nothing less than down-to-earth. Stephanie explained she is looking forward to formal sorority recruitment and not being Delta Grounded anymore. Snaps to that!

I was wondering, too, gentlemen, why is this beautiful bachelorette single? After attending her sister’s wedding this summer, Stephanie is convinced it stems from not forwarding along a chain email five years ago to her 17 closest friends. But are you the fraternity gentleman for her? “My dream guy is a gentleman. He holds the door for me, pulls out my chair

at restaurants, holds my hand and is sweet. He is also very funny. This is important. If he cannot handle or pick up on my sarcasm we’ll have a huge problem. He is also Greek. People might think that this requirement sounds dumb, but if a man is Greek, he values tradition, has ambition, character, and I wouldn’t have to worry about him ever dressing poorly.” Stephanie explains that Mr. Right also needs a slight touch of rough and tough to defend her in any necessary occasion. Call her “sweetheart,” and you’ve got this one in the bag, gents.

Emily Kahlenbeck, Pi Beta Phi

Emily is a sophomore in Pi Beta Phi from St.Louis Park, Minnesota. Emily shared an appreciation for the “Gryffindor-like” colors of the University of Minnesota but also loved how the U is like our very own “downtown.” She loves guinea pigs, steak and fleece socks. Emily spent her summer working at Minikahda Golf Club, so you know there are perks for taking this lady off the single list. She not only spent her free time frequenting the humane society but she re-read the Harry Potter series and perfected her very own homemade burrito. Well-rounded, I’d say.

Emily is excited to actually begin her year with a strong group of friends, begin the Interior Design program and of

course, dive into Homecoming! Why does she love Pi Beta Phi? “I love how everyone accepts one another’s quirkiness, our pledge class fits together like a puzzle, and the food is spectacular!” In 10 years, she sees herself “with a career in Interior Design, living somewhere outside of Minnesota, preferably on either coast, and have at least two dogs, one named Bubba and the other Beyonce, because I’ve never been allowed to have either one.”

How can you prepare yourself to be Emily’s dream guy? “He must accept and embrace my awkwardness, appreciate a lack of social skills, and love to eat!” That seems easy enough! Make her laugh, get her Chipotle and share some quality time at “Hoppy Hour” at the Humane Society from 3-4 on a Sunday and there’s no way she’ll pass you up!

MeeT The greeks: single Ladies editionlinDSay sMIThPi Beta PhiAmber is a sophomore studying journalism and public relations. You may contact her at amberschwab@yahoo.com.

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Get a full night’s rest! The first day of recruitment starts with a meeting at 9 a.m., and you will probably want to get up plenty early to get ready for the day. Make sure you get sleep so you can present your best self to every chapter you visit. If you get tired in the afternoon, try to wake yourself up with mints, caffeine or a snack. The recruiters will also be tired so coming in with positive energy will only enhance the conversation.

Bring a snack. Even though chapters offer a food option on House Tours, Philanthropy and Preference night bring something to munch on in between rounds. Most of the snacks chapters offer are small and you might not have time to eat them if you are having a good conversation.

If you are nervous about taking the food, do not be. The chapter member you are talking to would probably love to have the food and often they cannot take it unless you do. Even if you are not interested in the food, taking it can give you something else to talk about with the recruiter.

Wear something you are comfortable in. Although it may seem like it, now may not the time to debut a new dress. How many times have you warn something for the first time and found the straps fall down or the lace detailing

is super itchy? Wear your go-to outfits that make you feel your best. Also be cautious of skirt length, as you will want to be able to sit gracefully on couches, benches and chairs.

Another thing to think about is shoe choice. If you are going to wear heels or wedges, bring sandals or flats to change into in between parties, on breaks or to later events.

Prepare some answers ahead of time. Throughout the days of recruitment you will be asked many of the same questions over and over, so prepare an answer that helps you stand out. When asked, “What’s your major?” tell the sorority woman your field of study and include why you chose it. This gives her information to find in common with you and a better chance to make a connection. If you don’t make a connection, the conversation can get dry and boring, but if you find a common interest, you’ll have a conversation that will leave her wanting more.

Be prepared to answer, “Did you do anything fun this summer?” “Where are you living?” and “Why did you decide to go through recruitment?” It is also a good idea have some questions in mind to ask the women you are talking to. If they ask you about your major then ask them about theirs. This will allow for a natural and flowing

conversation. Remember that the women you are talking to are just as nervous as you!

Know what you are looking for. Before you step foot in a sorority make a list of the things you are looking for in the organization you are about to make a life-long commitment to. Are you looking for a home away from home, a venue for leadership experience, or scholastic motivation?

Stay committed to these values throughout recruitment and remember to stay true to yourself. The friends you make who are also going through recruitment may be looking for things different from you or you may be feeling pressure from your mom or siblings. Trust yourself, and if you get confused, seek guidance from your Rho Alpha or another neutral source.

TIPs FOr sOrOrITy reCrUITMeNT sUCCess

BETSy hEnDRICkGamma Phi Beta

Betsy is a junior studying early childhood education. You may contact her at hendr675@umn.edu.

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As another school year approaches, also my senior year (ah!), so does another wonderful recruitment season as a Rho Alpha. Recruitment is in the air as we have been preparing for over 400 potential new members to join our Greek community! As a Rho Alpha group of over 50 women from each sorority chapter, we participated in several Welcome Week events leading up to the main event: Recruitment! We also found time to bond and have some fun at the Minnesota State Fair! We had so much fun, went on rides and ate WAY too much food on a stick!

As the final days of recruitment continue, I have seen so many potential new members in my group discover their fit in our community and that is the most rewarding part about being a Rho Alpha- a truly happy and excited new member! We are very excited to welcome every woman into our community and I wish everyone best of luck with the rest of recruitment! Be Greek!

rhO aLPha eXPerIeNCe

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KaTiE kOLbERGrho alpha

Katie is studying public relations and management. You may contact her at kate@odyssey-north.com.

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We’re all finally back on campus! It’s time to get back to the early mornings, daily routines, all-nighter study sessions, and crammed schedules. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t time for having fun and staying active, though! The University of Minnesota has a fantastic intramural sports program. They offer everything from Water Polo, to Broom Ball, to Basketball!

It’s really simple to start your own team, and I think it’s great to have as many Greek teams involved as possible. It’s a wonderful way to get to know other fraternities and sororities and also an easy way to shine a positive light on the Greek community throughout the campus population. You can sign up individually or put together your own team. Usually the games and matches are once a week and have a very minimal time commitment.

Intramural sports are a blast! I personally was involved in a soccer intramural team (outdoor in the stadium… legit) and had so much fun with my team; we ended up winning the championship game! It’s such a simple and engaging way to stay fit while meeting new people and bonding with those that you already know. Registration will take place at the Rec Center Sept. 11-13.

Registration fees are budget friendly and completely worth it!

If intramurals aren’t really your thing, but you are looking for something to work toward, than you might find some interest in the RuggedManiac 5k. This is a challenging, yet exhilarating race full of obstacles coming up on Sept. 15 in Minneapolis. There are 18 army-style obstacles throughout the course; it’s not made for the weak, but a great way to challenge yourself! You can register alone or form a team of your own!

Again, this would be an excellent marketing opportunity for the U of MN Greek community; it’s also a good way to get an engaging work out and get some fun pictures with your friends at the end. The sooner you register online (www.ruggedmaniac.com), the less expensive it is. There will be live bands playing afterward and plenty of food and drinks for everyone!

TIMe TO geT aCTIVe ThIs FaLL

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Brianna sTEInkAMPalpha PhiBrianna is a junior studying sociology and Spanish. You may contact her at stei0666@umn.edu.

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