I remember the first time I clicked the zoom link for rush. It was the first night, and I knew absolutely nothing about AKPsi. I was told by some sophomores to go to the information session, so there I was. However, I found myself hooked on the first night, and I kept coming back for more. At first, I didn’t know what it was. Was it the novelty of being a first-semester freshman, where everything was exciting? Was it, perhaps, the effortlessness of rushing on zoom? In hindsight, I kept coming back because of the people.
Now I encourage everyone to rush, because I have made so many lifelong friends from this brotherhood.
As you have probably read in the other stories, AKPsi at Tulane is unique. We’re one of the largest chapters in the country; yet, everyone knows each other at a personal level. I can safely say that I can walk down McAlister, run into several brothers, and strike up a conversation with each one. Not to mention, my professional hard and soft skills have improved tremendously since joining AKPsi.
I’ve always felt respected by the people in this organization. Not only are they some of the most passionate, accomplished, and generous individuals, but they also strive to build you up as well. Collaboration over competition is an evident principle in this brotherhood. Everyone wants to see you thrive, whether it be professionally or personally. However, I want to point out: even if you’re not at a point in your life where you’re thriving, the people in this organization have got your back. They will be the first people to check up on you to make sure that you’re okay.
I may have joined to learn about professional skills, but I stayed for the people. I can rely on the brotherhood to be there for me, whenever. Need a ride to Trader Joe’s because you suddenly realize that all of your snacks are gone? A brother has got me. Want to get some Wow Cafe after chapter even though it’s midnight? A brother has got me. Want to go skydiving? 20 other brothers will join you (this was my favorite memory freshman year, hands down). Want someone to jump into the pond in Audubon with you just because you want to (and yes, this has happened before)? I´ve got you.
At the end of the day, the brotherhood is the strongest aspect of this organization (and I’m not just saying this as the previous brotherhood chair!).
