It’s All Greek To Me: How New Members Are Adjusting To Their First Greek THON
Because sorority and fraternity recruitments fall so close to THON every year, the 46-hour dance marathon is often one of the first times that new members are able to spend extended, uninterrupted periods of time with their new organizations.
It can be a little overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what you’re walking into. Here’s how some of Penn State’s newest Greeks are faring:
You joined this organization recently. Do you feel like you’ve met a lot of new people so far?
“I really like a lot of them because they’re genuine. They’ve been a really big help in getting adjusted because obviously this is a little overwhelming at first, but I really feel like I’ve found a good group of people here that I can rely on.” -Sarah Yermalovich, Phi Sigma Sigma
“Definitely. I’ve been included since the beginning.” -Louie Magliaro, Phi Kappa Psi
“Yes. We’ve been doing a lot of bonding, like movie nights and stuff every weekend.” -Erin Studdert, Alpha Xi Delta
“Yeah. I feel like I’ve bonded with a good amount of the guys, especially the sophomores and juniors.” -Ben Dunne, Chi Phi
How have you been able to meet new people?
“We had a pasta dinner at AGR to kind of kick things off on Wednesday, and it was a really good way to meet people, especially some of the brothers.” – Sarah Yermalovich
“We’ve done a lot of fundraising, a lot of events at the house where we try to meet other people.” – Louie Magliaro
“We did dancer mail together, which we used as a sisterhood event, and it really brought us all together.” – Katie McKowen, Freshman, Alpha Xi Delta
“There are a lot of events where they get us involved.” – Ben Dunne
What do you think of your first THON with your new fraternity/sorority so far?
“It’s been amazing just seeing people all here for a great cause. It’s something really special for not only me but for everyone and all the dancers we’re rooting for. -Sarah Yermalovich
“It’s the best experience. I’m so glad I’m able to do it with them. They do it the best way possible.” -Louie Magliaro
“It’s amazing. It’s so cool to see everyone come together for one cause.” -Katie McKowen
“So far, it’s been a lot of fun. I feel like I’m making a real impact.” -Ben Dunne
What were your expectations coming into this year’s THON?
“It’s a lot different in a really good way because last year my friends and I just came, but I definitely feel like now I have more of a purpose to be here.” -Sarah Yermalovich
“Big atmosphere, great support. It’s everything Penn State has to offer.” – Louie Magliaro
“I honestly didn’t know what to expect. Everyone had just said that your first THON is just so amazing.” – Erin Studdert
“I’ve never been a part of THON, but my high school have Mini THON, so I kind of had a glimpse of what it’s like.” – Ben Dunne
Your ad blocker is on.
Please choose an option below.
Purchase a Subscription!
About the Author
‘And Just Like That’: Mara McKeon’s Senior Column
“I have only grown from every experience I went through here, good and bad, and in the end, it made me a better person.”
Texas A&M Edge Rusher Enai White Transfers To Penn State Football
White spent three seasons with the Aggies before entering the transfer portal.
Penn State Football To Wear Generations Of Greatness Uniforms Against SMU
The uniforms are typically worn during Homecoming games, though, the game against SMU has historical significance for the program.
Trusting Your Gut: Katie Moats’ Senior Column
“I uprooted my life and came to Penn State because I decided to follow a series of gut feelings, and I’ve been following those feelings ever since. I’m not sure where my next feeling will lead me, but I’m excited to see how it all turns out.”