My Experience— The stereotypical image of a sorority girl is what we often see in movies: a blonde, bubbly, white girl who is obsessed with social events. When I arrived at Chapman University, this was my expectation of the Panhellenic community. As an Asian American, I knew I didn’t fit this image, so I dismissed the idea of participating in formal recruitment. Fast forward two years, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have found my lifelong friends in what once felt like an untouchable and foreign community. I know firsthand that the ever-perpetuated sorority girl stereotype barely scratches the surface of what it truly means to be in a sorority.
Joining a sorority—especially at a predominantly white institution—comes with both challenges and opportunities. I’ve had to navigate the preconceived notions that Asian American women are reserved, studious, or uninterested in Greek life. At the same time, I’ve been able to challenge these ideas by fully embracing leadership roles, building social connections, and engaging in advocacy work within my chapter.
As Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, I work to create a more inclusive sisterhood that welcomes women of all backgrounds. We know this well: representation matters—especially in the Greek community. Seeing more women of color, women from different backgrounds and interests, and women from all walks of life in the Panhellenic community helps break the mold of what it means to be a sorority member and creates more opportunities for all women.
Being in a sorority isn’t about fitting a stereotype—it’s about community, empowerment, and growth. Witnessing my own development through my chapter and leadership roles, as well as seeing other women thrive on their own journeys, makes me incredibly proud to be part of a movement that redefines what sisterhood looks like. As an Asian American, I still face challenges within my community, it’s never perfect. But diversity in the Greek system will continue to grow and improve if we work towards it! I’m grateful to be part of a chapter that celebrates diversity, amplifies voices like mine, and actively fosters inclusion.
Written by Campus Marketing Intern: Mandy Fang, Chapman University
