More than 1,500 women participate in this year’s 19 party

“We are Alpha Chi’s and we are really great!”
 
Cheers like this erupted from inside the sorority houses as members showed spirit for their chapter and encouragement for potential recruits.

This weekend the 19 Panhellenic sorority houses on campus opened their doors to more than 1,500 IU women to recruit new members for the upcoming year at 19 Party, the first of four recruitment rounds occurring over the next month. The first round focused on introducing the chapters to potential new members.

“I think that when people in the house are really excited about it, it gets the girls really excited and more likely to remember the house,” said Elizabeth Adamo, Pi Beta Phi recruitment chair.

During 19 Party, potential new members are split up into groups and visit each of the 19 sorority chapters, said PHA President Annie Raeder. While at each house the women are given a tour and a chance to speak with three or four active members.

“You try to think of something to say that will make you stand out,” said sophomore Erica Eads. “In every house they are going to ask you what your major is, but I try to tell them personal stories that will make them laugh.”

Eads is going through recruitment with her younger sister Stephanie Eads. The two hope to get bids from the same chapter, though they are keeping open minds.

“We mostly just want to make sure we both find chapters that are a good fit for us,” Eads said. “So far we have ended up liking the same houses; the older, historical ones.”

Check Monday's edition of the Indiana Daily Student for full coverage of 19 Party.