Standing at the threshold of sorority recruitment, you're probably feeling that familiar mix of excitement and nerves - the same energy that buzzes through campus during rush week. You know your resume needs to tell your story in a way that resonates with sorority sisters, but this isn't your typical job application resume. This is about showcasing who you are as a potential sister, leader, and contributor to a sisterhood that could shape your entire college experience.
Creating a sorority resume requires a different lens than crafting a professional resume. While your academic achievements and work experience matter, sororities are equally interested in your character, values alignment, leadership potential, and ability to contribute to their unique community. The challenge lies in presenting yourself authentically while highlighting experiences that demonstrate you embody the qualities they're seeking in their next class of new members.
Throughout this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to create a standout sorority resume. We'll start with proven resume templates specifically designed for Greek life applications, then dive deep into structuring each section - from crafting a compelling objective that speaks to sorority values, to presenting your education, work experience, and extracurricular activities in ways that resonate with recruitment committees. We'll explore how to effectively showcase leadership roles, community service, and unique skills that set you apart, while addressing common concerns like limited work experience or academic challenges.
By the end of this article, you'll have a clear roadmap for creating a resume that not only gets you noticed during recruitment but genuinely represents the incredible person you are. Whether you're a high school senior preparing for your first recruitment or a transfer student looking to join Greek life at your new school, we'll cover the specific strategies and considerations that will help your application shine among hundreds of other hopeful candidates.
For sorority recruitment, the reverse-chronological format stands as your best ally. This format places your most recent achievements front and center, allowing recruitment committees to immediately see your current involvements and recent accomplishments. Think of it as starting your conversation with "Here's what I'm doing right now" rather than "Let me tell you about middle school."
Begin with a compelling header that includes your full name, email address, phone number, and current address (including your dorm or housing information if you're already on campus). Some sororities appreciate seeing your hometown listed as well, as it helps them understand your background and potential connections within their network.
Following your header, include an objective statement - yes, in this case, an objective works better than a summary. Unlike job applications where you might highlight past achievements, sorority recruitment focuses on your aspirations and what you hope to contribute to the sisterhood.
❌ Don't write a generic objective:
Seeking membership in a sorority to make friends and have fun in college.
✅ Do write a specific, values-driven objective:
Dedicated pre-med student seeking to join [Sorority Name] to contribute to philanthropic initiatives while building lifelong bonds with women who share my commitment to academic excellence and community service.
After your objective, organize your resume into these key sections - Education, Leadership Experience, Community Service/Volunteer Work, Extracurricular Activities, Work Experience (if applicable), and Skills/Interests. This order strategically highlights what matters most in Greek life - your academic commitment, leadership potential, and dedication to service.
Keep your formatting clean and conservative. While you might be tempted to add decorative elements, remember that sororities value tradition and professionalism. Use consistent bullet points, maintain uniform spacing, and ensure your resume doesn't exceed one page. In the UK and Australia, where Greek life follows slightly different traditions, you might extend to two pages if you have extensive volunteer work, but one page remains the gold standard in the US and Canada.
Here's where many potential new members feel stuck - you're likely 18 or 19, maybe holding your first part-time job or fresh from high school with limited formal work experience. The beautiful truth? Sororities understand this completely. They're not looking for corporate executives; they're looking for young women who demonstrate responsibility, commitment, and the ability to balance multiple priorities.
Your work experience section should encompass any position where you've demonstrated reliability and interpersonal skills. That summer job at the local ice cream shop? It shows you can work with the public and handle busy environments. Your babysitting gig throughout high school? It demonstrates trustworthiness and responsibility. Even unpaid positions like tutoring younger students or helping with family businesses count here.
When describing your work experience, focus on qualities that translate to sorority life - teamwork, communication, time management, and dedication. Quantify your achievements where possible, and always emphasize how your role impacted others positively.
❌ Don't write vague job descriptions:
Cashier at Target
•Worked register
•Helped customers
•Stocked shelves
✅ Do highlight transferable skills and achievements:
Sales Associate at Target | June 2022 - Present
•Maintain 98% customer satisfaction rating while processing 50+ transactions daily
•Train new team members on customer service protocols and inventory systems
•Collaborate with 15-member team to achieve monthly sales goals
•Balance 20-hour work week with full academic course load
Many sorority applicants have rich experiences that don't fit traditional "job" categories. Perhaps you spent summers counseling at church camp, organized fundraisers for your high school band, or managed social media for a local nonprofit. These experiences often carry more weight than traditional employment because they demonstrate values alignment with Greek life principles.
Remember to include any leadership roles within work settings, even if informal. Did you become the go-to person for training new hires? Were you trusted to open or close the business? These details paint a picture of your reliability and leadership potential.
The skills section of your sorority resume serves as a window into your personality and potential contributions to sisterhood. Unlike a professional resume where you might list software proficiencies or technical abilities, your sorority resume skills should blend practical abilities with personal qualities that align with Greek values.
Think of your skills in three distinct categories - interpersonal skills, practical skills, and interest-based skills. Interpersonal skills demonstrate your ability to thrive in a community living environment. Practical skills show what you can contribute to sorority operations and events. Interest-based skills help recruitment committees envision how you'll connect with current sisters.
Your interpersonal skills might include conflict resolution (perhaps from mediating between friends), event planning (from organizing high school activities), or mentorship (from helping younger students). These soft skills often matter more than hard skills in the sorority context.
❌ Don't list generic skills without context:
Skills: Leadership, Communication, Organized, Friendly, Team Player
✅ Do provide specific, relevant skills with subtle context:
Skills:
•Event Planning - Coordinated junior class prom for 300 students
•Public Speaking - Delivered presentations to 100+ person audiences
•Social Media Marketing - Grew high school theater Instagram to 1,000 followers
•Crisis Management - Certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid
•Bilingual - Fluent in English and Spanish
Don't shy away from including unique skills that might seem unconventional. Can you play guitar? Include it - many sororities have talent shows or coffee house events. Are you skilled at calligraphy? Sororities often need help with formal invitations and crafts. Your seemingly random skills might fill a specific need within the sorority or help you bond with sisters who share similar interests.
In countries like Canada and Australia, where sorority culture may emphasize different values, consider highlighting skills related to academic achievement and professional development more prominently. In the US, while academics matter, the balance can lean slightly more toward social and philanthropic capabilities.
Now let's address the elephant in the room - creating a sorority resume feels fundamentally different from any other resume you'll write. You're not trying to land a job; you're hoping to find your home away from home, your chosen family, your sisters for life. This unique context demands special considerations that no other resume guide will tell you.
First, understand that sororities often have generational preferences. Some chapters value family connections to Greek life, so if your mother, aunt, or sister was in a sorority (especially the same one), mention it appropriately. However, never fabricate or exaggerate these connections - the Greek community is smaller than you think, and honesty remains paramount.
Include a professional photo if specifically requested, but know this varies by institution and region. Some schools prohibit photos to ensure fair recruitment, while others consider them standard. When in doubt, follow your university's Panhellenic guidelines precisely.
If your GPA isn't stellar, don't hide it - most sororities have minimum GPA requirements and will verify. Instead, show an upward trend or explain improvements in your cover letter. If you transferred schools or took a gap year, address it briefly but positively in your objective or cover letter.
❌ Don't try to hide concerning information:
Education: State University (GPA: Available upon request)
✅ Do be transparent while showing growth:
Education: State University | Current GPA: 2.9 (Raised from 2.3 freshman fall) Dean's List Spring 2023 | Major: Biology, Pre-Med Track
Unlike job applications where you might use the same resume for multiple positions, each sorority deserves a customized approach. Research each chapter's philanthropic focuses, values, and recent activities. If one sorority emphasizes educational initiatives and you've tutored, make sure that experience shines. If another prioritizes fitness and wellness while you're a certified yoga instructor, highlight that certification prominently.
Submit your resume according to each sorority's timeline. Some request resumes months before formal recruitment, while others want them during recruitment week. Early submission often signals genuine interest, so don't wait until the last minute.
Remember that unlike corporate recruiters scanning hundreds of resumes, sorority recruitment committees are often comprised of women just a year or two older than you. They remember being in your shoes. They're looking for authenticity, potential, and genuine enthusiasm for Greek life.
Don't feel pressured to appear perfect. If you're naturally introverted, don't pretend to be a social butterfly - many sororities value diverse personality types. If your experience leans heavily academic rather than social, own it. There's a place for every type of person in Greek life, and the right sorority will value what makes you unique.
Finally, proofread meticulously. Have multiple people review your resume - ideally including someone familiar with Greek life. A single typo won't destroy your chances, but attention to detail reflects the pride and care you'll bring to representing your future sorority. Your resume is your first opportunity to show that you understand the privilege and responsibility of wearing letters.
Come, let's explore a scenario - you're sitting at your dorm desk, Greek letters adorning your wall, and you're crafting a resume that needs to showcase not just your academic prowess, but your sisterhood journey. As someone applying for positions within the sorority world, whether it's for a leadership role in your chapter, a position with nationals, or even leveraging your Greek experience for internships, your education section needs to tell a story that resonates with both your academic achievements and your commitment to sorority values.
Your education section should lead with your current institution, but here's where it gets interesting for sorority members. Unlike typical resumes, yours has the unique opportunity to weave in your Greek affiliation as part of your collegiate experience. Start with the basics - university name, degree, graduation date, and GPA if it's above 3.0. But then, make it distinctly yours by including your chapter designation.
❌ Don't write your education like this:
State University Bachelor of Arts in Communications
✅ Do enhance it with your Greek identity:
State University - Athens, GA Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Expected May 2025 GPA: 3.6/4.0 Alpha Delta Pi, Gamma Chapter - Active Member since 2022
Remember those late nights studying in the chapter house library? They paid off, and now it's time to showcase them. Include Dean's List recognition, but also highlight Greek-specific academic achievements. Many sororities have scholarship programs and academic excellence awards that demonstrate you embody the intellectual development pillar of sorority life.
✅ Do include Greek academic achievements:
Academic Achievements: - Dean's List: Fall 2023, Spring 2024 - Panhellenic Academic Excellence Award (GPA above 3.5) - Alpha Delta Pi Scholarship Recipient - 2023
Here's where you can really set yourself apart. As a sorority member, you've likely taken courses that directly relate to the skills needed in Greek life leadership. Think about classes in leadership development, nonprofit management, event planning, or women's studies. These aren't just classes - they're preparation for the multifaceted roles within sorority operations.
✅ Do list coursework strategically:
Relevant Coursework: Organizational Leadership, Event Management, Nonprofit Fundraising, Women in Leadership, Public Relations
If you've studied abroad, this deserves special mention. Many sororities value global perspectives and cultural awareness. Perhaps you maintained your sorority involvement even while overseas, or you brought back insights that enriched your chapter's diversity initiatives.
Remember, your education section isn't just a list of credentials - it's a narrative about how your academic journey intertwines with your sorority experience, creating a unique profile that speaks to your dedication to both intellectual and personal growth within the Greek community.
Think back to that moment when your name was called at the Greek Awards Banquet. The room erupted in your sisters' cheers, and you walked to the stage knowing this recognition was about more than just you - it represented your chapter's values in action. Now, translating these achievements onto paper requires finesse and strategic thinking.
Within the Greek system, awards carry weight that outsiders might not immediately understand. That "Sister of the Month" recognition? It speaks to leadership, dedication, and embodiment of sorority values. The key is presenting these awards with context that makes their significance clear to any reader.
❌ Don't list awards without context:
Sister of the Month - March 2023 Most Spirited Member
✅ Do provide meaningful context:
Outstanding Sister Award - Spring 2024 Recognized for exceptional leadership in organizing philanthropy events raising $15,000 for literacy programs New Member Educator Excellence Award - Panhellenic Council 2023 Honored for innovative programming resulting in 100% new member retention
Your involvement extends beyond the chapter house walls. Maybe you received recognition for Greek Week performances, Panhellenic leadership, or community service through your sorority. These awards demonstrate your ability to represent your organization in the broader community - a crucial skill for any sorority leadership role.
✅ Do highlight broader impact:
Greek Woman of the Year - University Interfraternity Council 2024 Selected from 2,000+ Greek women for excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service Mayor's Volunteer Service Award - 2023 Recognized for coordinating sorority volunteers for city-wide literacy initiative (500+ volunteer hours)
In the digital age, many sorority members contribute to chapter blogs, create social media content, or write for Greek life publications. Perhaps you've authored articles about recruitment strategies, sisterhood development, or Greek life advocacy. These publications showcase your ability to articulate the sorority experience and advocate for Greek values.
✅ Do include relevant publications:
Publications: "Building Inclusive Sisterhood: A Guide for Modern Greek Life" - Featured in National Panhellenic Conference Quarterly, Fall 2023 "Philanthropy in Practice: How Sororities Create Community Impact" - Chapter blog series, reaching 5,000+ readers
Not every certificate from every mixer makes the cut. Focus on awards that demonstrate leadership, impact, and alignment with sorority values - scholarship, leadership, service, and sisterhood. Think quality over quantity, relevance over volume.
Your awards section tells the story of a woman who doesn't just wear her letters - she lives them through recognized excellence in all aspects of sorority life.
Picture this scene - you're at your sorority's Founder's Day celebration, surrounded by sisters spanning generations. That alumna who mentored you through your first executive board position catches your eye and smiles. These connections - these are your professional goldmine when it comes to references. The Greek network is unique in its loyalty and reach, and knowing how to leverage these relationships professionally is an art form every sorority woman should master.
Your reference list for sorority-related positions should reflect the hierarchical and interconnected nature of Greek life. Unlike traditional job applications where you might list former bosses, your Greek references tell a story of mentorship, sisterhood, and leadership development across different levels of the organization.
❌ Don't list references without Greek context:
References Available Upon Request
✅ Do create a strategic reference list:
References: Sarah Mitchell, Alpha Delta Pi National Vice President Phone: (555) 123-4567 | Email: [email protected] Relationship: National officer during my term as Chapter President Dr. Jennifer Chen, Director of Greek Life, State University Phone: (555) 234-5678 | Email: [email protected] Relationship: Advisor during Panhellenic Executive Board service Maria Rodriguez, Alpha Delta Pi Alumna & Chapter Advisor Phone: (555) 345-6789 | Email: [email protected] Relationship: Direct mentor and advisor for 3 years
Think strategically about your reference mix. For Greek-specific positions, include at least one sister who has seen your leadership evolution, one Greek Life professional who can speak to your broader impact, and one alumna who can attest to your long-term commitment to sorority values. This combination shows you're respected across different segments of the Greek community.
Remember that recruitment chair who guided you through your first formal recruitment? Or that house corporation board member who saw you manage a chapter facility crisis? These women have witnessed your growth in ways that transcend typical professional relationships.
In the sorority world, asking for references follows both professional protocol and sisterhood bonds. Always reach out personally - preferably by phone or in-person if possible. Remind them of specific projects or challenges you tackled together. Provide them with the job description and a brief summary of why you're passionate about the role.
✅ Do prepare your references with context:
When requesting a reference, provide: - The specific role and organization - Key experiences you'd like them to highlight - Your vision for how this role aligns with sorority values - Timeline for when they might be contacted
In the USA, Greek references are powerful networking tools, especially for roles within the sorority system or related fields. However, if you're applying internationally, consider including a mix of Greek and non-Greek references. In the UK and Australia, where Greek life is less established, you may need to help your references frame their feedback in terms that translate across cultural contexts.
Never list your big sister as a reference without having another more "professional" Greek reference to balance it - while these relationships are meaningful, you want to show you've built respect beyond your immediate circle. Always include at least one reference who has seen you handle adversity - maybe that advisor who supported you through a chapter crisis or the alumna who mentored you through a difficult leadership decision.
Your references are more than names on a page - they're testimony to your journey through sisterhood, your growth as a leader, and your commitment to values that extend far beyond your collegiate years. Choose them wisely, prepare them thoroughly, and let them help tell the story of the leader you've become through your sorority experience.
Remember that nervous excitement before your first recruitment conversation? Crafting a cover letter for a sorority position requires that same blend of authenticity and polish. You're not just applying for a role - you're expressing how your journey through sisterhood has prepared you to serve your organization at a deeper level.
Your cover letter's opening should immediately establish your credibility within the Greek community. This isn't the place for generic introductions. Whether you're applying for a chapter advisor role, a position with your national organization, or leveraging your Greek experience for a related opportunity, your opening should radiate your understanding of sorority culture.
❌ Don't open generically:
Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the available position.
✅ Do open with Greek-specific connection:
Dear Sisters of the Alpha Delta Pi Executive Board, As a proud Alpha Delta Pi who has served as Chapter President and witnessed firsthand the transformative power of sisterhood, I am thrilled to apply for the Regional Consultant position.
The middle paragraphs should seamlessly blend your sorority experiences with the specific requirements of the role. Think about those moments that defined your Greek journey - leading a struggling committee to success, mentoring a little sister through challenges, or innovating recruitment strategies. These aren't just memories; they're professional experiences that demonstrate competency.
For positions within the Greek system, use sorority terminology naturally. Discuss how you've upheld the pillars of your organization, but always connect these abstract values to concrete achievements. Did your commitment to scholarship result in implementing a new study program? Did your dedication to service lead to a record-breaking philanthropy event?
✅ Do connect values to achievements:
During my term as VP of Recruitment, I embodied our motto "We Live for Each Other" by developing a mentorship program that paired potential new members with diverse sisters, resulting in our most inclusive pledge class to date - increasing diversity by 40% while maintaining our highest retention rate in chapter history.
If you're applying to a role outside the Greek system but want to leverage your sorority experience, your approach shifts slightly. You'll need to "translate" your Greek experiences into universally understood professional skills. That recruitment chair position? It's actually experience in talent acquisition, event management, and strategic planning.
In the USA, sorority involvement is widely understood and generally viewed positively. However, if you're applying to positions in the UK or Australia, where Greek life is less prevalent, focus more on the leadership and organizational skills rather than Greek-specific culture. In Canada, Greek life exists but on a smaller scale, so provide slightly more context about your chapter's size and scope.
Your closing paragraph should project forward, showing how your sorority foundation prepares you to excel in this new role. Express enthusiasm not just for the position, but for the opportunity to further the mission of sisterhood, whether directly or through applying these values in a new context.
Remember, your cover letter is your chance to show that you understand the unspoken - the late-night conversations about values, the tears and triumphs of sisterhood, and the profound responsibility of carrying Greek letters. Make it count.
Creating an effective sorority resume requires understanding the unique culture and values of Greek life while authentically representing your own journey and potential. Here are the essential points to remember as you craft your application:
Using a professional resume builder like Resumonk specifically for your sorority application ensures your resume maintains the polished, organized appearance that recruitment committees expect while allowing you to focus on crafting compelling content that tells your unique story. Our templates are designed to highlight the experiences and qualities that matter most in Greek life, helping you present yourself as the ideal candidate for sisterhood.
Ready to create your perfect sorority resume? Start building with Resumonk's professional templates designed specifically for Greek life applications. Get started today and take the first step toward joining your ideal sisterhood.
Standing at the threshold of sorority recruitment, you're probably feeling that familiar mix of excitement and nerves - the same energy that buzzes through campus during rush week. You know your resume needs to tell your story in a way that resonates with sorority sisters, but this isn't your typical job application resume. This is about showcasing who you are as a potential sister, leader, and contributor to a sisterhood that could shape your entire college experience.
Creating a sorority resume requires a different lens than crafting a professional resume. While your academic achievements and work experience matter, sororities are equally interested in your character, values alignment, leadership potential, and ability to contribute to their unique community. The challenge lies in presenting yourself authentically while highlighting experiences that demonstrate you embody the qualities they're seeking in their next class of new members.
Throughout this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to create a standout sorority resume. We'll start with proven resume templates specifically designed for Greek life applications, then dive deep into structuring each section - from crafting a compelling objective that speaks to sorority values, to presenting your education, work experience, and extracurricular activities in ways that resonate with recruitment committees. We'll explore how to effectively showcase leadership roles, community service, and unique skills that set you apart, while addressing common concerns like limited work experience or academic challenges.
By the end of this article, you'll have a clear roadmap for creating a resume that not only gets you noticed during recruitment but genuinely represents the incredible person you are. Whether you're a high school senior preparing for your first recruitment or a transfer student looking to join Greek life at your new school, we'll cover the specific strategies and considerations that will help your application shine among hundreds of other hopeful candidates.
For sorority recruitment, the reverse-chronological format stands as your best ally. This format places your most recent achievements front and center, allowing recruitment committees to immediately see your current involvements and recent accomplishments. Think of it as starting your conversation with "Here's what I'm doing right now" rather than "Let me tell you about middle school."
Begin with a compelling header that includes your full name, email address, phone number, and current address (including your dorm or housing information if you're already on campus). Some sororities appreciate seeing your hometown listed as well, as it helps them understand your background and potential connections within their network.
Following your header, include an objective statement - yes, in this case, an objective works better than a summary. Unlike job applications where you might highlight past achievements, sorority recruitment focuses on your aspirations and what you hope to contribute to the sisterhood.
❌ Don't write a generic objective:
Seeking membership in a sorority to make friends and have fun in college.
✅ Do write a specific, values-driven objective:
Dedicated pre-med student seeking to join [Sorority Name] to contribute to philanthropic initiatives while building lifelong bonds with women who share my commitment to academic excellence and community service.
After your objective, organize your resume into these key sections - Education, Leadership Experience, Community Service/Volunteer Work, Extracurricular Activities, Work Experience (if applicable), and Skills/Interests. This order strategically highlights what matters most in Greek life - your academic commitment, leadership potential, and dedication to service.
Keep your formatting clean and conservative. While you might be tempted to add decorative elements, remember that sororities value tradition and professionalism. Use consistent bullet points, maintain uniform spacing, and ensure your resume doesn't exceed one page. In the UK and Australia, where Greek life follows slightly different traditions, you might extend to two pages if you have extensive volunteer work, but one page remains the gold standard in the US and Canada.
Here's where many potential new members feel stuck - you're likely 18 or 19, maybe holding your first part-time job or fresh from high school with limited formal work experience. The beautiful truth? Sororities understand this completely. They're not looking for corporate executives; they're looking for young women who demonstrate responsibility, commitment, and the ability to balance multiple priorities.
Your work experience section should encompass any position where you've demonstrated reliability and interpersonal skills. That summer job at the local ice cream shop? It shows you can work with the public and handle busy environments. Your babysitting gig throughout high school? It demonstrates trustworthiness and responsibility. Even unpaid positions like tutoring younger students or helping with family businesses count here.
When describing your work experience, focus on qualities that translate to sorority life - teamwork, communication, time management, and dedication. Quantify your achievements where possible, and always emphasize how your role impacted others positively.
❌ Don't write vague job descriptions:
Cashier at Target
•Worked register
•Helped customers
•Stocked shelves
✅ Do highlight transferable skills and achievements:
Sales Associate at Target | June 2022 - Present
•Maintain 98% customer satisfaction rating while processing 50+ transactions daily
•Train new team members on customer service protocols and inventory systems
•Collaborate with 15-member team to achieve monthly sales goals
•Balance 20-hour work week with full academic course load
Many sorority applicants have rich experiences that don't fit traditional "job" categories. Perhaps you spent summers counseling at church camp, organized fundraisers for your high school band, or managed social media for a local nonprofit. These experiences often carry more weight than traditional employment because they demonstrate values alignment with Greek life principles.
Remember to include any leadership roles within work settings, even if informal. Did you become the go-to person for training new hires? Were you trusted to open or close the business? These details paint a picture of your reliability and leadership potential.
The skills section of your sorority resume serves as a window into your personality and potential contributions to sisterhood. Unlike a professional resume where you might list software proficiencies or technical abilities, your sorority resume skills should blend practical abilities with personal qualities that align with Greek values.
Think of your skills in three distinct categories - interpersonal skills, practical skills, and interest-based skills. Interpersonal skills demonstrate your ability to thrive in a community living environment. Practical skills show what you can contribute to sorority operations and events. Interest-based skills help recruitment committees envision how you'll connect with current sisters.
Your interpersonal skills might include conflict resolution (perhaps from mediating between friends), event planning (from organizing high school activities), or mentorship (from helping younger students). These soft skills often matter more than hard skills in the sorority context.
❌ Don't list generic skills without context:
Skills: Leadership, Communication, Organized, Friendly, Team Player
✅ Do provide specific, relevant skills with subtle context:
Skills:
•Event Planning - Coordinated junior class prom for 300 students
•Public Speaking - Delivered presentations to 100+ person audiences
•Social Media Marketing - Grew high school theater Instagram to 1,000 followers
•Crisis Management - Certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid
•Bilingual - Fluent in English and Spanish
Don't shy away from including unique skills that might seem unconventional. Can you play guitar? Include it - many sororities have talent shows or coffee house events. Are you skilled at calligraphy? Sororities often need help with formal invitations and crafts. Your seemingly random skills might fill a specific need within the sorority or help you bond with sisters who share similar interests.
In countries like Canada and Australia, where sorority culture may emphasize different values, consider highlighting skills related to academic achievement and professional development more prominently. In the US, while academics matter, the balance can lean slightly more toward social and philanthropic capabilities.
Now let's address the elephant in the room - creating a sorority resume feels fundamentally different from any other resume you'll write. You're not trying to land a job; you're hoping to find your home away from home, your chosen family, your sisters for life. This unique context demands special considerations that no other resume guide will tell you.
First, understand that sororities often have generational preferences. Some chapters value family connections to Greek life, so if your mother, aunt, or sister was in a sorority (especially the same one), mention it appropriately. However, never fabricate or exaggerate these connections - the Greek community is smaller than you think, and honesty remains paramount.
Include a professional photo if specifically requested, but know this varies by institution and region. Some schools prohibit photos to ensure fair recruitment, while others consider them standard. When in doubt, follow your university's Panhellenic guidelines precisely.
If your GPA isn't stellar, don't hide it - most sororities have minimum GPA requirements and will verify. Instead, show an upward trend or explain improvements in your cover letter. If you transferred schools or took a gap year, address it briefly but positively in your objective or cover letter.
❌ Don't try to hide concerning information:
Education: State University (GPA: Available upon request)
✅ Do be transparent while showing growth:
Education: State University | Current GPA: 2.9 (Raised from 2.3 freshman fall) Dean's List Spring 2023 | Major: Biology, Pre-Med Track
Unlike job applications where you might use the same resume for multiple positions, each sorority deserves a customized approach. Research each chapter's philanthropic focuses, values, and recent activities. If one sorority emphasizes educational initiatives and you've tutored, make sure that experience shines. If another prioritizes fitness and wellness while you're a certified yoga instructor, highlight that certification prominently.
Submit your resume according to each sorority's timeline. Some request resumes months before formal recruitment, while others want them during recruitment week. Early submission often signals genuine interest, so don't wait until the last minute.
Remember that unlike corporate recruiters scanning hundreds of resumes, sorority recruitment committees are often comprised of women just a year or two older than you. They remember being in your shoes. They're looking for authenticity, potential, and genuine enthusiasm for Greek life.
Don't feel pressured to appear perfect. If you're naturally introverted, don't pretend to be a social butterfly - many sororities value diverse personality types. If your experience leans heavily academic rather than social, own it. There's a place for every type of person in Greek life, and the right sorority will value what makes you unique.
Finally, proofread meticulously. Have multiple people review your resume - ideally including someone familiar with Greek life. A single typo won't destroy your chances, but attention to detail reflects the pride and care you'll bring to representing your future sorority. Your resume is your first opportunity to show that you understand the privilege and responsibility of wearing letters.
Come, let's explore a scenario - you're sitting at your dorm desk, Greek letters adorning your wall, and you're crafting a resume that needs to showcase not just your academic prowess, but your sisterhood journey. As someone applying for positions within the sorority world, whether it's for a leadership role in your chapter, a position with nationals, or even leveraging your Greek experience for internships, your education section needs to tell a story that resonates with both your academic achievements and your commitment to sorority values.
Your education section should lead with your current institution, but here's where it gets interesting for sorority members. Unlike typical resumes, yours has the unique opportunity to weave in your Greek affiliation as part of your collegiate experience. Start with the basics - university name, degree, graduation date, and GPA if it's above 3.0. But then, make it distinctly yours by including your chapter designation.
❌ Don't write your education like this:
State University Bachelor of Arts in Communications
✅ Do enhance it with your Greek identity:
State University - Athens, GA Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Expected May 2025 GPA: 3.6/4.0 Alpha Delta Pi, Gamma Chapter - Active Member since 2022
Remember those late nights studying in the chapter house library? They paid off, and now it's time to showcase them. Include Dean's List recognition, but also highlight Greek-specific academic achievements. Many sororities have scholarship programs and academic excellence awards that demonstrate you embody the intellectual development pillar of sorority life.
✅ Do include Greek academic achievements:
Academic Achievements: - Dean's List: Fall 2023, Spring 2024 - Panhellenic Academic Excellence Award (GPA above 3.5) - Alpha Delta Pi Scholarship Recipient - 2023
Here's where you can really set yourself apart. As a sorority member, you've likely taken courses that directly relate to the skills needed in Greek life leadership. Think about classes in leadership development, nonprofit management, event planning, or women's studies. These aren't just classes - they're preparation for the multifaceted roles within sorority operations.
✅ Do list coursework strategically:
Relevant Coursework: Organizational Leadership, Event Management, Nonprofit Fundraising, Women in Leadership, Public Relations
If you've studied abroad, this deserves special mention. Many sororities value global perspectives and cultural awareness. Perhaps you maintained your sorority involvement even while overseas, or you brought back insights that enriched your chapter's diversity initiatives.
Remember, your education section isn't just a list of credentials - it's a narrative about how your academic journey intertwines with your sorority experience, creating a unique profile that speaks to your dedication to both intellectual and personal growth within the Greek community.
Think back to that moment when your name was called at the Greek Awards Banquet. The room erupted in your sisters' cheers, and you walked to the stage knowing this recognition was about more than just you - it represented your chapter's values in action. Now, translating these achievements onto paper requires finesse and strategic thinking.
Within the Greek system, awards carry weight that outsiders might not immediately understand. That "Sister of the Month" recognition? It speaks to leadership, dedication, and embodiment of sorority values. The key is presenting these awards with context that makes their significance clear to any reader.
❌ Don't list awards without context:
Sister of the Month - March 2023 Most Spirited Member
✅ Do provide meaningful context:
Outstanding Sister Award - Spring 2024 Recognized for exceptional leadership in organizing philanthropy events raising $15,000 for literacy programs New Member Educator Excellence Award - Panhellenic Council 2023 Honored for innovative programming resulting in 100% new member retention
Your involvement extends beyond the chapter house walls. Maybe you received recognition for Greek Week performances, Panhellenic leadership, or community service through your sorority. These awards demonstrate your ability to represent your organization in the broader community - a crucial skill for any sorority leadership role.
✅ Do highlight broader impact:
Greek Woman of the Year - University Interfraternity Council 2024 Selected from 2,000+ Greek women for excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service Mayor's Volunteer Service Award - 2023 Recognized for coordinating sorority volunteers for city-wide literacy initiative (500+ volunteer hours)
In the digital age, many sorority members contribute to chapter blogs, create social media content, or write for Greek life publications. Perhaps you've authored articles about recruitment strategies, sisterhood development, or Greek life advocacy. These publications showcase your ability to articulate the sorority experience and advocate for Greek values.
✅ Do include relevant publications:
Publications: "Building Inclusive Sisterhood: A Guide for Modern Greek Life" - Featured in National Panhellenic Conference Quarterly, Fall 2023 "Philanthropy in Practice: How Sororities Create Community Impact" - Chapter blog series, reaching 5,000+ readers
Not every certificate from every mixer makes the cut. Focus on awards that demonstrate leadership, impact, and alignment with sorority values - scholarship, leadership, service, and sisterhood. Think quality over quantity, relevance over volume.
Your awards section tells the story of a woman who doesn't just wear her letters - she lives them through recognized excellence in all aspects of sorority life.
Picture this scene - you're at your sorority's Founder's Day celebration, surrounded by sisters spanning generations. That alumna who mentored you through your first executive board position catches your eye and smiles. These connections - these are your professional goldmine when it comes to references. The Greek network is unique in its loyalty and reach, and knowing how to leverage these relationships professionally is an art form every sorority woman should master.
Your reference list for sorority-related positions should reflect the hierarchical and interconnected nature of Greek life. Unlike traditional job applications where you might list former bosses, your Greek references tell a story of mentorship, sisterhood, and leadership development across different levels of the organization.
❌ Don't list references without Greek context:
References Available Upon Request
✅ Do create a strategic reference list:
References: Sarah Mitchell, Alpha Delta Pi National Vice President Phone: (555) 123-4567 | Email: [email protected] Relationship: National officer during my term as Chapter President Dr. Jennifer Chen, Director of Greek Life, State University Phone: (555) 234-5678 | Email: [email protected] Relationship: Advisor during Panhellenic Executive Board service Maria Rodriguez, Alpha Delta Pi Alumna & Chapter Advisor Phone: (555) 345-6789 | Email: [email protected] Relationship: Direct mentor and advisor for 3 years
Think strategically about your reference mix. For Greek-specific positions, include at least one sister who has seen your leadership evolution, one Greek Life professional who can speak to your broader impact, and one alumna who can attest to your long-term commitment to sorority values. This combination shows you're respected across different segments of the Greek community.
Remember that recruitment chair who guided you through your first formal recruitment? Or that house corporation board member who saw you manage a chapter facility crisis? These women have witnessed your growth in ways that transcend typical professional relationships.
In the sorority world, asking for references follows both professional protocol and sisterhood bonds. Always reach out personally - preferably by phone or in-person if possible. Remind them of specific projects or challenges you tackled together. Provide them with the job description and a brief summary of why you're passionate about the role.
✅ Do prepare your references with context:
When requesting a reference, provide: - The specific role and organization - Key experiences you'd like them to highlight - Your vision for how this role aligns with sorority values - Timeline for when they might be contacted
In the USA, Greek references are powerful networking tools, especially for roles within the sorority system or related fields. However, if you're applying internationally, consider including a mix of Greek and non-Greek references. In the UK and Australia, where Greek life is less established, you may need to help your references frame their feedback in terms that translate across cultural contexts.
Never list your big sister as a reference without having another more "professional" Greek reference to balance it - while these relationships are meaningful, you want to show you've built respect beyond your immediate circle. Always include at least one reference who has seen you handle adversity - maybe that advisor who supported you through a chapter crisis or the alumna who mentored you through a difficult leadership decision.
Your references are more than names on a page - they're testimony to your journey through sisterhood, your growth as a leader, and your commitment to values that extend far beyond your collegiate years. Choose them wisely, prepare them thoroughly, and let them help tell the story of the leader you've become through your sorority experience.
Remember that nervous excitement before your first recruitment conversation? Crafting a cover letter for a sorority position requires that same blend of authenticity and polish. You're not just applying for a role - you're expressing how your journey through sisterhood has prepared you to serve your organization at a deeper level.
Your cover letter's opening should immediately establish your credibility within the Greek community. This isn't the place for generic introductions. Whether you're applying for a chapter advisor role, a position with your national organization, or leveraging your Greek experience for a related opportunity, your opening should radiate your understanding of sorority culture.
❌ Don't open generically:
Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the available position.
✅ Do open with Greek-specific connection:
Dear Sisters of the Alpha Delta Pi Executive Board, As a proud Alpha Delta Pi who has served as Chapter President and witnessed firsthand the transformative power of sisterhood, I am thrilled to apply for the Regional Consultant position.
The middle paragraphs should seamlessly blend your sorority experiences with the specific requirements of the role. Think about those moments that defined your Greek journey - leading a struggling committee to success, mentoring a little sister through challenges, or innovating recruitment strategies. These aren't just memories; they're professional experiences that demonstrate competency.
For positions within the Greek system, use sorority terminology naturally. Discuss how you've upheld the pillars of your organization, but always connect these abstract values to concrete achievements. Did your commitment to scholarship result in implementing a new study program? Did your dedication to service lead to a record-breaking philanthropy event?
✅ Do connect values to achievements:
During my term as VP of Recruitment, I embodied our motto "We Live for Each Other" by developing a mentorship program that paired potential new members with diverse sisters, resulting in our most inclusive pledge class to date - increasing diversity by 40% while maintaining our highest retention rate in chapter history.
If you're applying to a role outside the Greek system but want to leverage your sorority experience, your approach shifts slightly. You'll need to "translate" your Greek experiences into universally understood professional skills. That recruitment chair position? It's actually experience in talent acquisition, event management, and strategic planning.
In the USA, sorority involvement is widely understood and generally viewed positively. However, if you're applying to positions in the UK or Australia, where Greek life is less prevalent, focus more on the leadership and organizational skills rather than Greek-specific culture. In Canada, Greek life exists but on a smaller scale, so provide slightly more context about your chapter's size and scope.
Your closing paragraph should project forward, showing how your sorority foundation prepares you to excel in this new role. Express enthusiasm not just for the position, but for the opportunity to further the mission of sisterhood, whether directly or through applying these values in a new context.
Remember, your cover letter is your chance to show that you understand the unspoken - the late-night conversations about values, the tears and triumphs of sisterhood, and the profound responsibility of carrying Greek letters. Make it count.
Creating an effective sorority resume requires understanding the unique culture and values of Greek life while authentically representing your own journey and potential. Here are the essential points to remember as you craft your application:
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