Last year I did one of the most rewarding and challenging things I have ever done. I served as Chapter President of my sorority. It was an incredibly challenging year and I learned so much about myself, my chapter and leadership.
- You become a 24/7 therapist to the entire chapter.
- Things will never go exactly according to plan.
- The standards chair is your new BFF.
- It's not an easy job.
- It's actually really really hard.
- But it's also worth it.
- Everything will crash and burn at the same time. It's inevitable. Just keep breathing.
- Keep Calm & Carry On.
- You will probably end up sobbing on the phone with your advisor.
- Recognize that life goes on & don't forget to remind everyone else of this fact.
- When your email address gets put on the internet, you'll get lots of interesting emails. It's completely okay to graciously thank the sender for thinking of you & your chapter and not waste anyone else's time with them.
- Some weeks you become the most popular person in the chapter. Those are probably not good weeks.
- Keep smiling!
- Don't be afraid to ask for advice.
- The past chapter president is the only person who has a clue how hard this is, they can be super helpful! Also, remember this when your term is done.
- You must hold people accountable.
- Playing Devil's Advocate becomes super annoying to all of the officers, but ensures they think through all the possibilities.
- Always think about what will be best for the chapter as a whole, not you or your best friends.
- Your opinion will not always be a popular one.
- Don't forget to have fun!
- Communication is key. Encourage all of the officers to over communicate.
- You are the chapter cheerleader! There is a positive side to everything.
- When something doesn't go well, or as planned, figure out why so it doesn't happen again.
- It's completely acceptable to take time for yourself.
- Using and living the values your organization has given you makes all the difference.
Any recovering presidents have any additional advice or lessons learned?
