Thinking about rushing a sorority and participating in formal recruitment this August? Good choice. Deciding to go greek was one of the best decisions I’ve made thus far during my time at Iowa State. Recruitment is an exceptionally unique and rewarding experience. Yet the process can be very overwhelming and stressful at times.

Here are a few things I picked up along the way that will hopefully lower your anxiety levels so you can have the best recruitment experience possible.

1. Wear comfy shoes 

Although you may be pumped to show of your new Sperrys or Steve Madden sandals, recruitment may not be the best time to slip into them for the first time. This is not to say you shouldn’t decide to wear your cutest shoes, just try and break them in beforehand. Even though Greekland and Sorority Circle only encompass a few streets, you’ll be on your feet all day long strutting from house to house, and blisters happen even to the best of us.

2. Mix it up

During recruitment you’re going to find you’ll be having very similar conversations at each house. You may get sick of saying the same thing over and over again. Solution? Be memorable and change it up! Don’t be afraid to be yourself. No other girl going through recruitment is exactly like you. When it comes to recruitment, there’s no script you have to follow. Don’t feel as though you have to talk about your major or what you did over the summer every time you talk to a girl.

3. Be Classy

There is a time and place to show off what your momma gave you and recruitment is not that time. Recruitment is all about making a good impression, not showing off your bust. You want to look age appropriate and fashion forward while professional at the same time.

4. Choose for you

So you and your five new BFFs like the same house? Great! However, you shouldn’t let this impact your decision making. At the end of the day you’re choosing a sisterhood, one that will be by your side for the rest of your life. You need to make sure you’re choosing the best house for you. It can be scary to make such an important decision, but you just have to trust yourself and the process. Everything will work out in the end.

5. Have fun

YOLO right? Don’t worry so much! Embrace the experience and soak it up as much as you can. Classes won’t have started yet, so no need to feel flabbergasted. Take this time to bond with the other girls in your recruitment group if nothing else. No matter what house everyone ends up in, you may be meeting girls who could remain your best friends for the rest of your college experience.