For our second installment on Article II, we will be discussing the promotion of educational and cultural interests. The Gamma Zeta Chapter of Delta Gamma upholds this value in various ways. Gamma Zeta holds study nights multiple times a month, allowing time with guaranteed quiet to complete work and study. Also, Gamma Zeta helps members connect with each other by allowing current and previous students of classes to meet and discuss professors and course work. Gamma Zeta’s commitment to education is evident. This past year Gamma Zeta was ranked third for highest GPA within the Panhellenic community. Gamma Zeta promotes members’ cultural interest through their personal interest groups. When these groups get together, they explore subjects that bring member education outside of the classroom.
Here’s what a few members of Gamma Zeta had to say about the second point, promoting educational and cultural interests:
“’Delta Gamma is a sisterhood built on a commitment to making the world better through not only service, but also a deep appreciation for each individual.’
Individuals of Delta Gamma are unique, but all members shares values that allow them to align under one crest. By encouraging an atmosphere that promotes lifelong friendship, Delta Gammas strive to find and create the best version of themselves.
One way that Delta Gamma does this is through promoting educational and cultural interests. Of all the aspects of article two, this is often the most underrated. Greek women are known for their philanthropies and social events, but they struggle to be associated with their intelligence. Living the ritual of Delta Gamma allows members to combat the roadblocks of Greek stereotypes. Every time a member goes to class or turns in an assignment she is wearing her letters. By living to the values of article two, Delta Gamma members acknowledge that their schoolwork is a priority that reflects every DG and every DG chapter. By valuing their cultural interest, Delta Gammas engage in their community and life. This intrigue allows members to explore ideas that will help their Delta Gamma experience grow; creating involved collegiate members and alumnae.
What DG has is very special. ‘Do Good’ is more than a motto. It is a way of life. Delta Gammas strive to “do good” in all that they do. An important way is through educational and cultural interest. It’s true that this time in a member’s life is a big juggling act. However, members should take solace in knowing they are not alone. Sometimes it will be easier to neglect this part of article two; nevertheless, members should remember that they are doing this for more than themselves. They are doing it for their older and younger sisters. They are doing it for Delta Gamma, an organization that will always be a part of their story.”
- Marissa Torres, freshman
“Aside from our other great values, ‘promoting education and cultural interests’ is the most important to me. In a nutshell, it is my ‘why.’ It wasn't until I was asked to reflect on how I felt about these particular values that I made this discovery. Deciding to major in studio arts was a very difficult decision for me to make. Countless times I have been told that I will have no job opportunities, that it isn't a ‘real major,’ asked what I plan on doing with my degree, and my favorite ‘man, you are so brave, my dad would never let me do that.’ Well the truth is: I'm scared to death. I'm well aware of the risk and uncertain career path that I am creating for myself. And sometimes I question my talent, decisions, and even passion that I have for art. I know that was a long tangent... But I realize the most influential factor towards my confidence is Delta Gamma. Yes I defiantly break all stereotypes. An art major and a sorority girl? Never heard of it! But I tell people it's the BEST place for an art major to be! I am surrounded by the support of over 300 sisters. The things that this chapter has done for my confidence is extraordinary. I'm constantly being praised and admired for following my dreams. And never do I feel undervalued, a feeling extremely common amongst us student artist. I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunities Delta Gamma provides for me. Without Delta Gamma and all of their positive support, I may not have been as brave to follow my dream and pursue what I love.”
-Suzannah Burke, sophomore, director of homecoming
“I want to talk about my favorite line from Article II: ‘The object of this Fraternity shall be to […] promote educational and cultural interests;’ and how my sisters live it out every day. First of all, as a graphic design major I am among the what? five other art majors, so you can imagine my interests were not the same as a biology major! I can talk one of my sister’s ears off about how much I hate Comic Sans (and I do all the time). But, what I love about Gamma Zeta is that no matter what font I am complaining about that week, my sisters continue to listen and are engaging; trying to gather information from me about graphic design. A person’s interests are constantly changing and growing. I think the best part about this line in Article II is that as Delta Gamma women we are saying YES to learning what we can from our sisters, to grow with them in their interests, and to push them to pursue their dreams. This line most simply means to us at Gamma Zeta: work your absolute hardest within your studies because it is our duty as sisters and collegiate women to educate ourselves so we can educate each other!!”
Victoria Roberts, junior, president
"To me, promoting educational and cultural interest means that I'm always encouraging my friends and others to do their best in school and respecting others who may have different cultural interests. For example, I'm always one to invite my friends to go study with me whether I'm going to the lib or studying at the house. If I know they have a test or anything I make sure they're studying or doing whatever it is that they need to be doing. I even offer to bring them coffee or whatever it is they may need to keep going. As for cultural interests, this one is tough, but I feel that I live this out by not judging other cultures, no matter how different they may be from mine. The best example that I can think of for this is religion. I think that overall we are a very God-centered chapter and although we may not believe in the same religion, we all support each other, no matter what or who we believe in.”
-Chelsea Bonck, senior
Written by: Caroline Rodrigue, director of rituals & Marissa Torres, freshman
