I’m Danielle, a grad student and recent alumni of Alpha Chi Omega at Quinnipiac University. I just graduated—and yes, it can definitely feel intimidating. My experience as a sorority member and as an intern at The Hang Loose Hut is helping carry me into my next chapter. Let’s walk through the phases you might also experience as you transition from college and sorority life to a new beginning.
The Shift
Let’s be real—transitioning to alum status is just plain weird. Your schedule suddenly becomes a blank canvas, while your besties are still attending chapter meetings. You’re staring at a closet full of letters, wondering, Is it weird to wear these in public now? NEWS FLASH: that merch is your alumni badge of honor! So wear it with pride!
But seriously, the transition to alumnae life is definitely strange. It’s like you’re still part of the sisterhood—just in a different, indescribable way. The best part is, you’ll adapt – just like you adapted into a sorority. There’s so many exciting things ahead for you.
The Hardest Goodbyes
Whether your tradition involves a big ceremony or a quiet goodbye, senior send-offs always feel bittersweet. It’s everything you’ve been working toward for years, and now it’s suddenly here. And bam—that constant in your life, the one you could always count on, is coming to an end.
The moment you realize things won’t ever be quite the same again is a hard pill to swallow. You’re saying goodbye to your class schedule, your support system, and your sisterhood. But you’re also saying hello to a new chapter.
So, What Now?
Now, it’s time to focus on your individual journey. You’re a soon-to-be college graduate, a full-fledged adult stepping into the wild unknown that is the “real world.” I know it’s daunting, but I promise—you’re ready.
Remember, this moment is the culmination of everything you’ve worked towards. Whether you’re aiming for the operating room, the classroom, or the office, every connection and every experience you’ve accumulated over the past four years isn’t just a resource—it’s a reminder of all that you’re capable of.
So reminisce. Feel those feelings—good and bad. And take everything you’ve learned and go show the “real world” what you’re made of!
Making Connections
Connections, connections, connections. We’ve all heard the Greek life sales pitch: “Get connections for life!” “Your sorority is a secret power network!” Okay, okay—we get it. But it’s true! Greek life doesn’t end when you walk across that stage.
Being in a chapter means that you’re a part of a legacy and a network that stretches far beyond graduation day. So reach out to your network, ask for references from advisors, join your sorority or fraternity’s alumni Facebook group. Continue to grow those connections and utilize the resources that came with being a part of Greek life.
You’ve invested four years into these relationships, so use them! A conversation with a fellow brother or sister could shape your future in ways you might not imagine.
Your Future
Alumni status means that you are always connected! Your chapter still needs your presence and your wisdom. So accept those alumni invitations, attend philanthropy events or donate to your philanthropy! Give back to the community that gave you so much over the last four years.
Another way you can stay in touch is by sharing your Greek life story! While a lot of your peers lived it with you, there’s a new group of fresh faces eager to learn from your experience. They could benefit from hearing it and it might persuade them to join a chapter one day too.
Your Greek life experience is interview gold! So don’t keep it a secret. Your accomplishments can make you a top candidate for the job you want! You may be surprised that so many of your future bosses and co-workers have also experienced Greek life. It is a great talking point and an instant way to connect.
There are so many career opportunities within the college and Greek life industry! As an intern at The Hang Loose Hut, I had the chance to expand my knowledge in product development, marketing, and sales. Plus, it looks great on a resume!
Embracing Change
Change—it’s inevitable, scary, and essential for personal growth. Embrace it. Use your Greek life experience as a resource and reference point as you begin to navigate adulthood. Explore beyond your comfort zone. Life’s path is unpredictable—just like Greek life once was—and look how that turned out!
So take those risks. You never know when they’ll pay off. Adulting, your next grand adventure, is waiting—and you’re more than equipped to handle what is next. Greek life has given you valuable tools—leadership, planning, networking, it’s shown you how to support yourself and support others —use your experience to exceed in your new chapter beyond your chapter and beyond college.
You are more ready than you feel. You’ve got this, and HAPPY GRADUATION!
Written by Campus Marketing Intern: Danielle Cipri, Quinnipiac University
