Tailgating…. The ultimate experience
It’s the scene of hundreds of tents, it’s the time in your life when you can cut loose, it’s the aroma of bar-b-que and alcohol, it’s the sound of the future running and playing, it’s the thunderous sounds of music and televisions, it’s the vision of thousands of crimson colored shirts, it’s the oneness that unites fans, it’s that warm feeling that you get deep down in your soul, it’s a tradition, its Alabama tailgating. Trying to describe tailgating at the University of Alabama is like trying to describe each snowflake that has ever fallen to a blind man. Tailgating is the experience that joints you and the University of Alabama.
Tailgating is the ultimate fan experience. You get to become part of the University Of Alabama, its a chance to get ready to live vicariously through each individual of a whole team. You get to experience real Alabama football in the heart of the campus on the quad, which gives you a sense that you are the one that pumps the blood to the team so that they can play better. You get to experience the great outdoors and the Roll Tide’s atmosphere. When the autumn brings in that new spirit of college football, when you start to see the leaves change, you get this overwhelming feeling that something bigger than you is about to happen. Its not until the actual season starts and you get out there that you really understand what is going on. The roar of the crowd, the yelling, the sense of hope that fills the air. Although not singing about it, a band by the name of Cartel sums it up so nicely in a song called “Luckie St” and I paraphrase, “there is a bitter cold chill in the air, that haunts every breath we take, but a hint of alcohol and nicotine keeps us warm inside. Its the time to roll your windows down, feel the cold air all around, and just know that not a thing can stop us now, plan to get carried away.” If you go to the quad and you don’t feel a sense of right, well you might just want to get your heartbeat checked.
People tailgate for a lot of different reasons: to get away and relax, to connect with old and new friends, or just because there is nothing else to do, but amongst all those reasons only one stood out from the rest. As I walked around the quad, amongst the Alabama fans, I saw an old gentleman and I asked him,” excuse me sir, but what do you get out of tailgating” and he responded,” I’ve been coming here for 6 plus year, so the real question is what don’t I get from this experience”, so I laughed and nodded my head, then I made my way to his grandson who was about the age of five or six, so I asked him, “what do you like about coming to tailgate little man” and he responded, “ I like to watch the game with my papa.” So, just from those two short conversations you get that Alabama tailgating is a tradition that brings family closer.
Now, post tailgating is a different beast all together. Each person if going to event pre-games to each his or her own way, whether it be from the eccentrics as painting up, or even getting costumes. To the new boys of the Greek section who are all wearing cheap sports jackets and even more piss-poor cologne. Each person chooses to get ready, but its how you deal with it after the game that makes it much more interesting. If you go through all the flamboyant histrionics and your team loses, chances are that you take the game a little more to heart as opposed to the casual fan who is just there to watch a ball game.
Tailgating works in several ways. It’s the ultimate fan get away, it creates bonds in families, and create traditions that will forever be passed on. Tailgating is a win win situation with the one exception. So, with all that said the question should not be what do you as an individual get out of tailgating, but as an individual what don’t you get out o
Monday, November 2, 2009
Alpha Chi Omega: Top Sorority on Campus
Group 6
It is no secret that most faculty and students on campus give Greek life a bad rap. It has been this way for many years, not only at the University of Alabama, but also all over the nation. Either at Alabama, you want to be Greek, or you do not. There is no in-between or halfway mark. Either you love it or you hate it. With this, many generalities are immediately assumed when one hears or sees that you are a Greek student. Fraternities and Sororities are seen as the “partiers” or the students who “buy their friends.” Well, in fact, some of these generalities may be true in other Fraternities and Sororities on campus, but it is not seen in the Sorority Alpha Chi Omega.
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
It is no secret that most faculty and students on campus give Greek life a bad rap. It has been this way for many years, not only at the University of Alabama, but also all over the nation. Either at Alabama, you want to be Greek, or you do not. There is no in-between or halfway mark. Either you love it or you hate it. With this, many generalities are immediately assumed when one hears or sees that you are a Greek student. Fraternities and Sororities are seen as the “partiers” or the students who “buy their friends.” Well, in fact, some of these generalities may be true in other Fraternities and Sororities on campus, but it is not seen in the Sorority Alpha Chi Omega.
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Alpha Chi Omega: Top Sorority on Campus
It is no secret that most faculty and students on campus give Greek life a bad rap. It has been this way for many years, not only at the University of Alabama, but also all over the nation. Either at Alabama, you want to be Greek, or you do not. There is no in-between or halfway mark. Either you love it or you hate it. With this, many generalities are immediately assumed when one hears or sees that you are a Greek student. Fraternities and Sororities are seen as the “partiers” or the students who “buy their friends.” Well, in fact, some of these generalities may be true in other Fraternities and Sororities on campus, but it is not seen in the Sorority Alpha Chi Omega.
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Alpha Chi Omega: Top Sorority on Campus
It is no secret that most faculty and students on campus give Greek life a bad rap. It has been this way for many years, not only at the University of Alabama, but also all over the nation. Either at Alabama, you want to be Greek, or you do not. There is no in-between or halfway mark. Either you love it or you hate it. With this, many generalities are immediately assumed when one hears or sees that you are a Greek student. Fraternities and Sororities are seen as the “partiers” or the students who “buy their friends.” Well, in fact, some of these generalities may be true in other Fraternities and Sororities on campus, but it is not seen in the Sorority Alpha Chi Omega.
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Alpha Chi Omega: Top Sorority on Campus
It is no secret that most faculty and students on campus give Greek life a bad rap. It has been this way for many years, not only at the University of Alabama, but also all over the nation. Either at Alabama, you want to be Greek, or you do not. There is no in-between or halfway mark. Either you love it or you hate it. With this, many generalities are immediately assumed when one hears or sees that you are a Greek student. Fraternities and Sororities are seen as the “partiers” or the students who “buy their friends.” Well, in fact, some of these generalities may be true in other Fraternities and Sororities on campus, but it is not seen in the Sorority Alpha Chi Omega.
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Alpha Chi Omega is a female Sorority that was one of the first founding houses on campus. This is also known by the popular slang term, “Old Row.” Alpha Chi was first founded as the first musical fraternity of women, and then it later became known as a “Sorority” as it became more and more popular. Alpha Chi Omega was founded upon many fundamental values and beliefs, that in my opinion, all girls should have. Alpha Chi girls are very well rounded. They are actively involved in the community, through projects, their philanthropy and community service. Alpha Chi truly has a bond, a sisterhood amongst its members that all sororities should have. The girls at Alpha Chi are also incredibly intelligent. They hold the title of earning the top grades on campus for the past 17 years.
As previously stated, the residing generalities may be that all Sororities party on not only the weekends, but also every night of the week. Alternatively, that they are “up to no good.” However, the reality is that in Alpha Chi, although they party some, this is not the key factor following the meaning of the sorority. They have one swap per week, which is a themed costume party that they have with a fraternity on campus. Another one of the founding beliefs of Alpha Chi is that there should be a real “sisterhood” in existence throughout the lifetime of the Sorority. Alpha Chi here at Alabama, seems to be upholding this because they really do seem to have each other’s backs, and act like real sisters.
Alpha Chi Omega is highly involved in their philanthropy and is actively involved in community service. Alpha Chi’s national philanthropy is domestic violence. Not only is it to try and put an end to this epidemic once and for all, but also to educate people and cause them to become more aware of this horrible on-going situation that is occurring in people’s homes all over the United States. Each semester Alpha Chi will hold a philanthropy event to raise money for domestic violence awareness. These events can be anything from a barbeque cookout to this year’s “Stomp out Domestic Violence 5K Run.” Alpha Chi also does little things throughout the semester for their philanthropy that are not as big as their biannual events. Alpha Chi also prides itself on participating and helping other sororities with their philanthropy events. Alpha Chi participates in the collection of items for various causes and charities like the Women’s Center, items for less fortunate children amongst other foundations. Alpha Chi is really trying to make a difference not only locally here in Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas, but nationally as well.
Alpha Chi has also been the top Sorority on campus for grades over the past seventeen years. This means that their GPA has, combined, as a whole is higher than that of any other sorority on campus. This, for the past few years, includes that of the totality of independent woman on campus. These girls really seem to know how to balance their schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Alpha Chi is known as the “classy” Sorority. They are required to uphold more rules than the rest of Sorority row, in order to maintain this reputation. They are not allowed to have crazy swaps with crazy themes, stand on any raised surface, etcetera. Alpha Chi is one of the Sororities who are truly committed to upholding a respectable outward appearance to all neutral parties. This also includes having a respectable reputation amongst the other houses on campus.
We interviewed a senior Alpha Chi member named Melissa. We asked her questions such as what is it like being an Alpha Chi? “I love being an Alpha because we really do care about others and I have made so many great friends that I will have for a lifetime.” Will you miss it after you graduate? “Yes! I don’t know what I’m going to do without my sisters!” What do you like most about your philanthropy? “I love that we that we do so many events to raise money for domestic violence, it shows that we really care and they are actually fun.” What do you love most about living in the house? “Well, my wardrobe expanded times 40! (Ha-ha), but I really love the closeness of everybody. You always have someone to do something with.”
As you can see, most of the generalizations that outside parties have on Greek life, are not prevalent in the Sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. Alpha Chi is truly committed to upholding their reputation, having a true sisterhood and separating themselves from the rest by earning the title of “Top Grades on Campus.”
Life in "Tut"
When starting freshman year, the first step is deciding where to live. There are numerous different types of dorms to choose from. Students choose from all girls, all boys, coed, and even apartment style dorms. For girls, Tutwiler seems to be the location of choice. However, these dorms aren’t anything special compared to the suite style dorms, and they are packed with thousands of females and absolutely no males. Also, they are so tiny and trying to pack all your belongings into the small space is a nightmare. Still, every year girls apply for housing early to make sure they get into Tutwiler hall. So, what makes girls fight over these dorms every year? And what do they get out of living in Tutwiler?
Most girls will tell you that you experience great sisterhood bonding. When girls ask where to live before they enter The University of Alabama, most girls, even parents, will suggest living in Tutwiler because it is a great way to meet new friends. Betty Shaw, a freshman living in Tutwiler this year, exclaimed that when she asked which dorm to live in, “no one hesitated to respond with Tutwiler, everyone claimed that it would be the best way to meet tons of people.” There are almost one thousand girls in the thirteen-story building, providing plenty of opportunities to meet friends. Most girls who live there now will confirm that this has been true.
Morgan Harrison, a freshman living on the fourth floor of Tutwiler, claims that living in Tutwiler has been an excellent experience. “It’s like living in a giant walk in closet, all the girls are willing to share anything. I’ve met friends just asking to borrow a hairdryer!” Others also claim that they thought living without boys would be hard especially at a huge school where its harder to meet people, however, most come to find that living in an all girls dorm is actually really relaxing and easy. “You can walk about in your pj’s looking like you just rolled out of bed, even when it’s five in the afternoon and no one would even question you, most likely because they’re wearing the same thing. It’s awesome,” claims Betty. Another huge reason girls make sure they get into Tutwiler is due to the excellent location, right across from the Bryant-Denny stadium, and of course, sorority row.
Because the Greek life is so big at the University of Alabama, girls who plan on being in a sorority desperately want to live near the sorority houses. Tutwiler provides this location. During rush especially, living in Tutwiler is the easiest way to go. It is very convenient and not a far walk to anything. It’s a great way to meet people, because most likely 75% of the girls in your sorority will end up living in Tutwiler. It makes it easy to be in the prime location during game days or Greek events. Even girls who did not pledge a sorority benefit from meeting great friends who did and are most likely more informed about the Fraternity parties; because as a freshman it’s hard not to feel intimidated by all the major events, but going with girls they have met from living together makes the situation much less awkward. Melody Hoffman, also a freshman, dropped out of rush after a couple of days, however she still loves all the Greek events and attends with other sorority members every weekend. “I don’t even feel like I dropped out, I get all the experience I need just hanging out with all the girls on my floor, and I feel like I have a very diverse group of friends from living in Tutwiler,” claims Melody.
The old building isn’t perfect, roommates often experience drama, there are no boys to give girls a break from one another, and there are definitely very strict rules. However, because of the great bonding and sense of sisterhood Tutwiler creates, girls find that living there gives them an excellent experience and provides wonderful friendships.
Most girls will tell you that you experience great sisterhood bonding. When girls ask where to live before they enter The University of Alabama, most girls, even parents, will suggest living in Tutwiler because it is a great way to meet new friends. Betty Shaw, a freshman living in Tutwiler this year, exclaimed that when she asked which dorm to live in, “no one hesitated to respond with Tutwiler, everyone claimed that it would be the best way to meet tons of people.” There are almost one thousand girls in the thirteen-story building, providing plenty of opportunities to meet friends. Most girls who live there now will confirm that this has been true.
Morgan Harrison, a freshman living on the fourth floor of Tutwiler, claims that living in Tutwiler has been an excellent experience. “It’s like living in a giant walk in closet, all the girls are willing to share anything. I’ve met friends just asking to borrow a hairdryer!” Others also claim that they thought living without boys would be hard especially at a huge school where its harder to meet people, however, most come to find that living in an all girls dorm is actually really relaxing and easy. “You can walk about in your pj’s looking like you just rolled out of bed, even when it’s five in the afternoon and no one would even question you, most likely because they’re wearing the same thing. It’s awesome,” claims Betty. Another huge reason girls make sure they get into Tutwiler is due to the excellent location, right across from the Bryant-Denny stadium, and of course, sorority row.
Because the Greek life is so big at the University of Alabama, girls who plan on being in a sorority desperately want to live near the sorority houses. Tutwiler provides this location. During rush especially, living in Tutwiler is the easiest way to go. It is very convenient and not a far walk to anything. It’s a great way to meet people, because most likely 75% of the girls in your sorority will end up living in Tutwiler. It makes it easy to be in the prime location during game days or Greek events. Even girls who did not pledge a sorority benefit from meeting great friends who did and are most likely more informed about the Fraternity parties; because as a freshman it’s hard not to feel intimidated by all the major events, but going with girls they have met from living together makes the situation much less awkward. Melody Hoffman, also a freshman, dropped out of rush after a couple of days, however she still loves all the Greek events and attends with other sorority members every weekend. “I don’t even feel like I dropped out, I get all the experience I need just hanging out with all the girls on my floor, and I feel like I have a very diverse group of friends from living in Tutwiler,” claims Melody.
The old building isn’t perfect, roommates often experience drama, there are no boys to give girls a break from one another, and there are definitely very strict rules. However, because of the great bonding and sense of sisterhood Tutwiler creates, girls find that living there gives them an excellent experience and provides wonderful friendships.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Preston Place
College is that time in every person’s life where your best memories are made and lifelong friends are met. New roommates and living on your own is a whole new ballgame for many students. The transition from high school to college can be tough at first, but this transition can be made a lot easier by picking the right roommates. Jay, Michael and Morgan come from different backgrounds, but, even with their diversity, they seem to make it work. Michael and Morgan can be described as typical “Bama” boys since both of them are from in-state. While Jay took a different route to the University of Alabama, as he came down from New Jersey. Even though they come from different cultures, they are still able to coexist with one another. They share an apartment together at the Preston Place complex, located on 12th Avenue. This apartment consists of three bedrooms and two bathrooms which makes it a perfect place for students to live during their college years. By living together with a close group of friends, these students are able to have an enjoyable college experience, as well as many opportunities for new friendships.
The roommates met freshman year while living in the dormitory, Burke Hall. Michael and Morgan were roommates. The two were from the same hometown and attended the same high school. They lived on the same floor as Jay, a northern boy from New Jersey. The three clicked very well and instantly created a friendship. As the boy’s freshman year came to an end, the three came to the decision to live together the following year. While searching for apartments, they stumbled upon an apartment complex called Preston Place. The location was perfect and had everything they were looking for. After looking and researching different areas, they came to the conclusion that Preston Place fit them best. The location of Preston Place was the deciding factor in their decision to pick this apartment complex.
Location is a primary factor when looking for a place to live in college. The Preston Place apartment complex is a desirable place to live because of this exact reason. Preston Place is located within walking distance of the most important structure in the state of Alabama, Bryant-Denny Stadium. During the week, students can easily walk to and from class without the hassle of parking and worrying about the pointless tickets that seem to put many college students into debt. On game days during the fall, it is a great place to tailgate before Alabama football games. Because of Preston Place’s convenient proximity to the stadium, residents of Preston Place are able to enjoy tailgating all day then have a short walk to the stadium prior to kickoff. Another great advantage of living at Preston place is being close to the famous “Strip.” The Strip is one of the most popular destinations for Alabama students since there are so many things to do there. With many different restaurants and bars on the Strip, it comes as no surprise that this is one of the busiest places on the weekends in Tuscaloosa. Since it is so close to Preston Place, residents that want to go to the bars to have a good time can walk home instead of taking a risk driving. Residents of Preston Place will have minimal driving with many of their needs within walking distance.
This two-story apartment complex is a great place to live because everyone in Preston Place knows each other and doesn’t mind letting others into their apartment. The hotspot is the corner apartment on the bottom floor where Jay, Michael and Morgan live. Everyone is always welcome in this apartment since they have an “open-door policy.” People are always coming in and out at their apartment, especially on the weekends when there are parties throughout the Preston Place apartment complex. “I think it (Preston Place) is a great place to live,” says Michael. “I would like to think that, in some way, we are able to bring people together and introduce new people as well.” This philosophy is what makes their community such a great place to stay. It opens up new opportunities for other people to make new friends with someone they might not have met in any other situation. The residents of other apartments always walk over to visit them, even if it is just for a short visit. The camaraderie among all of the residents at Preston Place makes it an enticing place to stay. It is a great feeling to know that the neighbors in the community have each other’s back.
The best aspect of this community is their ability to be supportive of one another. Even when times get tough, these residents are always able to encourage each other. This is a college town and things are always bound to happen, bad and good. For example, if the cops were called to break up a party, then each resident of the community would do anything possible to help out whoever is in trouble. There is also a well-known tradition in this community during the weekends. A late night run to Pita Pit on the Strip happens every night on the weekends, usually by the people who are most intoxicated. Of course, there is always that one person who is either too drunk or too lazy and tries to get someone to bring them back a meal. You always have someone to hang out with whether you're just chilling or wanting to go out and do something, there are always many options.
The residents of Preston Place make it one of the best places to live, even though it might not be one of the biggest apartment complexes. Because of the location, people coming into town for a stay usually like to stay here because of that and its fun atmosphere. This apartment complex acts like a smaller version of a fraternity because of how close they are to each other. It is a brotherhood where new people meet each day and old friends hang out because they enjoy the company of each other. Preston Place brings people together who might have not met any other way. The diversity throughout the apartment complex makes it an intriguing destination. It is a place where good ole country boys from the South end up with someone from up North. College is all about meeting new people and having new experiences. Preston Place seems to have contributed much to these three guys college experience.
The roommates met freshman year while living in the dormitory, Burke Hall. Michael and Morgan were roommates. The two were from the same hometown and attended the same high school. They lived on the same floor as Jay, a northern boy from New Jersey. The three clicked very well and instantly created a friendship. As the boy’s freshman year came to an end, the three came to the decision to live together the following year. While searching for apartments, they stumbled upon an apartment complex called Preston Place. The location was perfect and had everything they were looking for. After looking and researching different areas, they came to the conclusion that Preston Place fit them best. The location of Preston Place was the deciding factor in their decision to pick this apartment complex.
Location is a primary factor when looking for a place to live in college. The Preston Place apartment complex is a desirable place to live because of this exact reason. Preston Place is located within walking distance of the most important structure in the state of Alabama, Bryant-Denny Stadium. During the week, students can easily walk to and from class without the hassle of parking and worrying about the pointless tickets that seem to put many college students into debt. On game days during the fall, it is a great place to tailgate before Alabama football games. Because of Preston Place’s convenient proximity to the stadium, residents of Preston Place are able to enjoy tailgating all day then have a short walk to the stadium prior to kickoff. Another great advantage of living at Preston place is being close to the famous “Strip.” The Strip is one of the most popular destinations for Alabama students since there are so many things to do there. With many different restaurants and bars on the Strip, it comes as no surprise that this is one of the busiest places on the weekends in Tuscaloosa. Since it is so close to Preston Place, residents that want to go to the bars to have a good time can walk home instead of taking a risk driving. Residents of Preston Place will have minimal driving with many of their needs within walking distance.
This two-story apartment complex is a great place to live because everyone in Preston Place knows each other and doesn’t mind letting others into their apartment. The hotspot is the corner apartment on the bottom floor where Jay, Michael and Morgan live. Everyone is always welcome in this apartment since they have an “open-door policy.” People are always coming in and out at their apartment, especially on the weekends when there are parties throughout the Preston Place apartment complex. “I think it (Preston Place) is a great place to live,” says Michael. “I would like to think that, in some way, we are able to bring people together and introduce new people as well.” This philosophy is what makes their community such a great place to stay. It opens up new opportunities for other people to make new friends with someone they might not have met in any other situation. The residents of other apartments always walk over to visit them, even if it is just for a short visit. The camaraderie among all of the residents at Preston Place makes it an enticing place to stay. It is a great feeling to know that the neighbors in the community have each other’s back.
The best aspect of this community is their ability to be supportive of one another. Even when times get tough, these residents are always able to encourage each other. This is a college town and things are always bound to happen, bad and good. For example, if the cops were called to break up a party, then each resident of the community would do anything possible to help out whoever is in trouble. There is also a well-known tradition in this community during the weekends. A late night run to Pita Pit on the Strip happens every night on the weekends, usually by the people who are most intoxicated. Of course, there is always that one person who is either too drunk or too lazy and tries to get someone to bring them back a meal. You always have someone to hang out with whether you're just chilling or wanting to go out and do something, there are always many options.
The residents of Preston Place make it one of the best places to live, even though it might not be one of the biggest apartment complexes. Because of the location, people coming into town for a stay usually like to stay here because of that and its fun atmosphere. This apartment complex acts like a smaller version of a fraternity because of how close they are to each other. It is a brotherhood where new people meet each day and old friends hang out because they enjoy the company of each other. Preston Place brings people together who might have not met any other way. The diversity throughout the apartment complex makes it an intriguing destination. It is a place where good ole country boys from the South end up with someone from up North. College is all about meeting new people and having new experiences. Preston Place seems to have contributed much to these three guys college experience.
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