Have you ever pondered to yourself and thought: ”Which fraternity or sorority should I join”? Or have you ever compared yourself to someone else who recently pledged? I have. That was me during my matriculation at a historically black college and university, or HBCU and before I pledged the greatest fraternity ever: Iota Phi Theta. Even when my friends in a fraternity and sorority would tell me that I was a great candidate in a fraternity, I always thought, ”I’m not worthy,” then I would downplay my accomplishments on the yard. No but really, would those ”if only” questions make us feel any? In my case, I knew that joining a fraternity was only the beginning, and then I would have a lifetime of service in the community to look forward to.
When I was a sophomore at Central State University in Wilberforce, I loved researching on all five of ”The Divine Nine”! That was when I realized that Iota Phi Theta, founded in the turbulent sixties during an era of radical change, was the perfect fit, for me! I later joined the youngest Black Greek-lettered organization, and is their anything better than that? Let me tell you, there is! And that’s a brotherhood based upon a bond of love between men.
Iota Phi Theta’s motto is ”Building a tradition, not resting upon one.” I always took that quite literally, and I try to wear my letters with pride and confidence. That is to say, members of this fraternity don’t have big shoes to fill. Rather, we are trailblazers paving the streets in brown and gold for those up next.
After I pledged, it didn’t take long for me to become involved. I served as Secretary in my fraternity, in addition to other campus leadership roles and my desk here at HBCU Buzz, leading the online media platform as Editor-in-Chief. Then one day it just hit me — this is one of the best decisions that I ever made. And I’m grateful for that.
I’ve come to love my fraternity, because every time I’m low and need someone to talk to, I can count on one of my fraternity members to be there with a shoulder to lean on, or an inspirational quote via text. This fraternity made me a better me. My fraternity also reminds me of how I can build a tradition, not rest upon one. What’s more, it is awesome to have founders that are still alive today.
For many interested students out there, think about: you have the opportunity to join a fraternity that appreciates you for being you. What an incredible feeling it is to be able to wear those letters proudly, knowing that you pledged for the right reasons.
If you’re having trouble choosing which fraternity to join, make sure that you give Iota Phi Theta a serious consideration. Brothers of the fraternity are more than willing to help you out on your journey. If you ask one of the brothers to help you, they will show you.
