My UIFI Experience - with Guest Blogger Shontal Cargill, President, Omicron Nu Chapter

Learn it, live it, teach it, expect it, love it. This phrase is forever ingrained in my memory thanks to my experience at the Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI). UIFI is a life changing experience that over the course of five days challenges fraternity and sorority members to elevate their organizations. I was able to attend UIFI this year because of the scholarship the Delta Zeta Foundation graciously provided.

My week at UIFI began with a series of small group exercises which allowed my group to get to know each other and build trust. Over the course of the next four days, I participated in discussions within the large group and within our small chapter group where we were encouraged to think outside of the box as we reflected and shared ideas about the Greek community. There was also lively debate within our sessions. We were able to discuss what it means to do fraternity and sorority the right way. We thought critically about the reasons we experience issues within our organizations and were challenged to not place blame on the media for the negative stereotypes associated with our organizations, and rather take responsibility for our actions that lead to these negative stereotypes. We were given time to think about issues within our organizations, which were all placed on a list that hung up in the dining room of the sorority house where we were staying. For the rest of the week, this list served as the motivation for us to think of ways to eliminate issues within our chapters and Greek community.

On day three, we were given the opportunity to serve the Bloomington, Indiana community. We broke off into different small groups and provided true service to local charitable organizations. I had the chance to volunteer with the local Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington. I learned here how Boys and Girls Clubs are integral to the community as they provide a space where “kids can be kids” while learning how to be caring and responsible individuals. This experience really moved me because I felt the passion that the volunteers had for their work.

That night we discussed what it means to BE our Ritual, rather than just ‘living’ or doing it. I took this time to reflect on what the Delta Zeta Ritual means to me, and despite being fairly quiet all week, I stood up in front of our large group with another Delta Zeta sister and recited our Creed. After listening to the creeds and mottos of other organizations, it was apparent that although we may say different words and have different Ritual, we are all committed to bettering ourselves and our communities through our organizations. That moment was truly life changing for me! We wrapped up UIFI by working on blueprints to change our organizations and communities upon our return. I feel confident that my blueprint will help me elevate my chapter at the University of Windsor.

I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to attend UIFI. I had the chance to speak to inspirational facilitators who helped me realize that the dreams I have for my chapter are within reach. The friendships I made within the course of five days are indescribable and I truly believe that every person I had the chance to meet will always be a part of my life. I have a renewed passion for fraternity and sorority life and I feel so much closer to Delta Zeta. You can learn more about my day-to-day experience on Twitter @PreppyScientist.

I would like to thank the Delta Zeta Foundation again for the scholarship I received to attend UIFI. Without it – I would have never had to chance to meet such amazing people and see clearly what it really means to be a part of this amazing organization.

With love,

Shontal Cargill

Omicron Nu

University of Windsor