ELI:
It’s almost been one year since I went
through recruitment here at Mizzou and joined Alpha Phi. In this short amount
of time Alpha Phi has not only eased my transition into college, but also
pushed me to become a better version of myself. This past Memorial Day weekend I
had the opportunity to travel to Butler University and represent Mizzou Alpha
Phi at the second session of Alpha Phi International’s Emerging Leaders
Institute (ELI). I was able to spend 5 days in the Alpha Phi house at Butler
along with 50 other Alpha Phi’s from all over the US and Canada. Throughout our
time at ELI we learned how to better ourselves as leaders and make effective
changes in our chapters.
I originally applied thinking “why not?” but
what I got in return ended up being an unforgettable experience! For instance,
something unique to the ELI experience is that we were fortunate enough to
spend time with Alpha Phi alumnae. ELI wouldn’t have been the same without the
enthusiasm, passion, and advice from the alumnae facilitators and mentors. They
led conversations on how to display Alpha Phi’s values in our everyday life as
well as handling various tough situations in our chapters. One of my favorite
sessions was about how to be a steward of Alpha Phi and I can’t wait to bring that
back to Mizzou!
I walked into this opportunity knowing I’d
gain a lot of helpful personal development and leadership skills, but what I
didn’t see coming were the friendships I’d gain too. One of the best parts of
ELI was learning from the inspiring women around me. My roommate is an Alpha
Phi at the University of Arizona and I probably wouldn’t have gotten the chance
to meet her if not for ELI. I also met sisters from schools such as University
of Kentucky, Oregon State, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Towson University,
and University of North Texas. By the end of the week it felt like we were our
own pledge class!
I will forever be thankful for the opportunity
to attend ELI along with the amazing sisters I met along the way. Alpha Phi
Emerging Leaders Institute made me realize I am part of something much bigger
than just one chapter at one school. I am so thankful to be part of a
sisterhood that truly does stretch across the country and ties such an amazing
group of women together.
Rush U:
This past May I also had the chance to attend Recruitment
University in Denver, CO as Mizzou Alpha Phi’s Director of Formal Recruitment.
Rylie Collins (Assistant Director of Formal Recruitment) and Maddy Roller
(Director of COB) were there to represent our chapter along with me! This short
weekend allowed us to work with our advisors to organize, strategize, and
prepare for this fall’s Formal Recruitment. It was awesome to be able to share
ideas with recruitment teams from other Alpha Phi chapters across the country. We
are so thankful that Alpha Phi International provides us the support and
training to preform our best during recruitment each year. Because I went
through Formal Recruitment just one year ago, I know it can be overwhelming,
especially at big schools like Mizzou. Recruitment University really got us
excited to welcome home our newest pledge class to Mizzou Alpha Phi in just a
couple months! Stay tuned for another post from the recruitment team, including our favorite rush tips!
