Walking down East Franklin Street, one can’t help but notice the sororities practicing for rush — the process of accepting new members that includes meet-and-greets, matching t-shirts, as well as morale-boosting dances and cheers.
At first glance, these rituals can seem odd to an outsider —interested onlookers can be found sitting on the sundial by the planetarium to watch the spectacle. But is sorority rush really that weird?
Moseying around a grungy house party, one can’t help but notice that the social rituals there are also pretty predictable. Most interactions start with an enthusiastic, “How was your summer?!”
The expected response is almost always positive — tales of path-defining summer internships and sexy vacations. What comes next is a choreographed dance of half-hugs, animated smiles and introductions.
If one were to strip away the dances, sorority traditions and color-coordinated outfits, one would find that sorority rushing at its core is no different than any other social ritual. At the start of the school year, we are all rushing.
The first week at UNC can be especially stressful for new students. Thinking back on our first week at Carolina, we felt it important to issue a reminder that trying to fit in is a universal impulse. We all yearn to be accepted so we engage in rituals to feel like a part of our communities.
Now is when solidifying old friendships and creating new groups is front-and-center in our minds. It’s only natural that we gravitate towards people who seem familiar. The smell of fresh grass, new notebooks and construction dust perfectly set the stage for forging new bonds.
The first year of college comes with a big dose of social energy —it’s a magical time and most first-year students are excited to start with a clean slate. For students later in their college career, there may not be the same energy.
But it’s not too late! Take advantage of this time to introduce yourself your neighbors. You never know who will make a difference in your college career. We encourage our fellow Tar Heels to resist natural groupings — to reach out and explore the diverse people and opportunities that Carolina has to offer. Don’t shy away from discomfort.
