As a college sophomore, there have been an endless amount of instances where I have been told to “seek the truth” or to “provide more evidence” to back up my argument. With the vast technological world that is the Internet, there seem to be answers everywhere you look. But at times, not even Wikipedia or Chegg can give you the solutions you need. There are moments where you have to decide to trust that little part of you that cannot seem to offer a fully supported explanation as to why you feel the why you do; there is just that small piece of your heart that urges you to follow through, even though you are completely irresolute of what the outcome might be. From experience, you have to trust that you will find the answers within your own time.
It is upon that feeling that I came to be a member of Alpha Delta Pi. Throughout the rush process, my mind was purely focused on finding the place where I felt most like myself, the house that could bring out most the person whom I aspired to be. As my time as a Delta member has advanced, I have come to see just how much ADPi has helped me progress in my life’s journey.
Opportunity. The amount of talent that is present in our chapter is overwhelming; but what is even more so is how many of our girls have applied those talents. Each day, our chapter receives news of a leadership or volunteer opportunity through organizations such as Student Government or Children’s Miracle Network. Along with these chances to gain fundamental skills, these girls offer personal guidance as a package deal. Moreover, the Pi bonds remain strong long after you graduate, as alumni continually and ardently provide our members with the chance to secure internships and job prospects. Alpha Delta Pis, past and present, continue to make their marks on UF’s campus.
Fellowship. Never have I met purer and generous hearts than those which are present in ADPi. Walking into the house does not always entail smiles and laughter, though our house seems to have plenty of that going on. Sometimes, it includes seeing a sister looking drained from a night full of cramming or another who seems to be battling family issues. No matter the situation, there are girls here who will never fail you. They will offer you that hug you desperately want after facing a horrible breakup and those same girls will be there when you need help celebrating with Midnight Cookies after your final exam. Being a part of Alpha Delta Pi means that we help one another, and along the way, we come to find that we are better versions of ourselves for it.
Walking in Faith. Though we are all diverse in looks, majors, and personalities, the very core of our hearts remain in alignment. Integrity, grace, kindness, and righteousness. That is what you will find in each Alpha Delta Pi; it is the type of character and moral ground that makes us all alike. My favorite Bible verse comes to mind, John 4:19, which states that “We love because He first loved us.” The girls in ADPi remind me to live each day with the same grace that God has given to us; they teach me to forgive others and to regard those around me with the upmost and deepest respect. It is them to whom I openly share my faith with; it is through these young women that I can see God’s love.