Photo courtesy of panhellenicusf on Instagram
By Kendall Bulkiewicz
When you think of Greek life, your mind might immediately jump to the viral videos of “Bama Rush” on TikTok or you might imagine a competitive, high-pressure environment. But what about Greek life at other Florida schools?
While not as high-profile, the University of South Florida’s Greek community offers its own unique, meaningful experiences.
At its core, Greek life is about community, leadership and service — values that are deeply ingrained in the culture at USF. Joining a sorority or fraternity here isn’t just about gaining friends or wearing letters; it’s about building a support system and finding a place where you truly belong.
Think of recruitment as a job interview process. You’re not just trying to impress; you’re also looking to find a place that aligns with your values and goals. The two-weekend recruitment process at USF involves visiting different chapters, meeting members, and learning about each organization. It’s less about making a perfect first impression and more about finding where you feel most comfortable and connected.
In today’s digital age, Greek organizations have adapted to stay connected and relevant. At USF, social media is used to engage with members and to recruit potential new ones. Instagram and TikTok aren’t just platforms for fun; they’re vital tools for outreach and community building. This digital presence allows USF chapters to create a sense of belonging and showcase what makes each organization special, from their philanthropic initiatives to their social events.
Unlike larger schools such as the University of Florida or Florida State University, where Greek life is almost synonymous with campus identity, USF’s Greek community may be smaller, but it is just as vibrant.
I remember my own experience going through recruitment and joining the Gamma Phi Beta chapter, I was nervous about fitting in, but the genuine warmth and friendliness I encountered put all my fears behind me. Senior members, like my big sister Lauren Clark who is majoring in elementary education, emphasized how the bonds we form go beyond college years and extend into lifelong friendships and professional networks. A big sister in a sorority is an active member who mentors a new member, or “little,” to help them adjust to the sorority.
“Joining a sorority is like investing in your future self. It teaches you leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that will serve you well beyond college. For me, it’s been about building a network of supportive peers who are invested in each other’s success.” Clark said.
While some might see Greek life as just another social club, it’s much more than that at USF. Many of my sisters are involved in leadership roles, on-campus clubs, and volunteer work, balancing busy schedules while maintaining high academic standards. This isn’t the stereotype you often hear about, and it’s important to recognize the real impact they have on campus and beyond.
Greek life is often clouded by misconceptions—like parties and hazing. At USF, Panhellenic prioritizes academics, personal development, and giving back to the community. For example, the Gamma Phi Beta chapter organizes study sessions, holds leadership workshops, and participates in various philanthropic events. Being part of a sorority is about growth and support. Yes, we have fun, but we also work hard and support each other through life’s challenges.
Ellie Bostedo is the new president of Panhellenic at USF. She is a senior this year and majoring in Integrated Public Relations & Advertising. She highlighted the university’s unique approach to recruitment.
“We never hold recruitment on school days because we value academics,” she said, emphasizing that this focus on education sets USF apart. She notes that while the campus is large enough to ensure you won’t know everyone, it’s still small enough to always see a familiar face, fostering a more personal experience. Unlike larger Southeast conference schools that invest heavily in elaborate recruitment processes, USF’s approach is inclusive and accessible to nontraditional members.
Bostedo also points out that she knows every member of her chapter by name, contrasting with larger institutions where members often only know their close friends.
Ava Rank is a sophomore this year and joined the Kappa Delta chapter in the fall of 2023. She is majoring in Integrated public relations and advertising. Rank echoed these statements by saying, “This chapter has changed my life for the better and continues to every day. Each day my chapter helps me gain a better understanding of what true genuine friendship looks like. Kappa Delta has not only helped me build lasting, meaningful connections but has also empowered me to become a more compassionate and confident individual, embodying the true essence of friendship and sisterhood. I am forever grateful for the sisterhood I found here on campus.”
Greek life at USF might not have the same spotlight as schools like Alabama, but that doesn’t make it any less valuable. It’s about community, personal development, and making a positive impact. Beyond the stereotypes and social media hype, there’s a genuine effort to create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
So, next time you think of Greek life, think beyond the parties and consider the friendships, the service, and the personal growth. That’s what truly defines Greek life at the University of South Florida.
