My One Year Zetaversary: 5 Things I Learned

Photo cred: Andre Hampton

Hey y'all!! What's up! How is everyone!? I hope you guys are doing well! It's been a while...I know I know...that's starting to become my infamous tagline...lol.  Give the kid a break...y'll know I love y'all!!  As for me I am doing good. I am filled with so much excitement!! Why you ask!?  It's my Zetaversary!!!  A year ago on April 18, 2017, I joined the most FINER organization a woman could join, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated!!!  The year just flew by!  I really can't believe its been a year.  The journey to get here has been a great one thus far.  The love I have received has been  amazing!  It inspired me to write Why I Joined a Sorority Graduate Chapter.  If you haven't checked that out go catch up.  As a "Zeta Baby" I digested lots and lots of knowledge that its too much to share. However, I have my top five things I learned that I am going to share with you guys.  So cop a squat and chill with me for a sec!

1.) DO NOT BE AFRAID TO HAVE A VOICE

Photo credit: Google.com

I am quiet by nature but I have a lot to offer.  It is very easy to hide and be silent when in unfamiliar territory, especially if you have no idea of what is going on.  I have been in many situation where I just have no clue.  Utilizing your voice shows people that you deserve a seat at the table and are worthy of making contribution that are exciting.  I am still finding my voice within the sorority but with continuous practice, becoming more involved, and guidance from my mentor my voice will be heard and strong in no time!

2.) SOAK UP AS MUCH KNOWLEDGE AS YOU CAN

Photo Cred: Google

In the beginning it was soooo overwhelming trying to retain all the information being given.  Don't stress, the information that was presented helped me tremendously. Attending chapter meetings and just overall networking has increased my Zeta knowledge.  Do not be hesitant to use your mentors (because that is what they are for) and resources if you do not know.   Many of times I had to ask questions.  Keep in mind a well informed Zeta is better than nothing at all.

3.) NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOUR SORORS

Photo Cred: Darryl Hammond

The women of my chapter consists of some powerful women in many different fields.  We have doctors, lawyers, social workers, teachers, the list goes on.  Right before the holidays, I lost my job.  You can imagine how I felt not knowing what my next move was going to be.  All my friends and family were very helpful, especially my Sorors! I received a tons of encouragement, love, motivation support, and job leads that really assisted me in staying positive in finding a job.

4.) IT'S OK IF YOU CAN'T ATTEND EVERY SINGLE EVENT!

My first week as a Zeta I wanted to hit the ground running! It was a lot of events going on from service events to parties.  I wanted to hit them ALL!! My new IS (intake sisters) were going everywhere and I wanted to be right there with them lol!  I was super excited to meet new Sorors and enjoy the moment.  For a split second I forgot I had responsibilities and was someone's momma..lol.  Once I woke up from my "Zeta" high and backed to reality, I realized that there are going to be times that I may not have a sitter or I have to go to work.  I had to remove the guilt and tell myself that it is okay.  There is always going to be a service event and party...so just chill...lol

5.) SAVE!SAVE!SAVE!!!

Last and the most important tip is SAVE YOUR COINS!! I really can not stress this point enough...lol  I actually learned this the hard way.  I strongly feel having money set aside for Zeta will help eliminate rushing to allocate funds, plus you are prepared.  When I attended the informational I remember one of my Soror's expressing how being a member is a luxury and a lifestyle (It may not be her exact words..lol) but what she said is sooo true.  That little gem she gave has stuck with me throughout my year and years to come.  I wished I had took it a little more serious because I wasn't prepared.  I did not get a chance to attend all the conferences which I was beyond bummed about.  So when you know better you do better.  I have developed a plan to create a separate savings strictly for Zeta. With the next upcoming Zeta year of  dues, conferences and Centennial coming ya girl here will be ready!   

Alright guys that is my five tips I learned within my first year as a Zeta baby!  I hope you enjoyed.  If any of my readers are about that Greek life, I want to hear from you & know what was some of the things you learned your first year!?  Till next time! See ya!!

-MissBranNew

#20 Strong Photo cred: Darryl Hammond