The International sorority called ‘Sigma Delta Phi’ has recently re-established itself. After struggling to stay afloat for months, girls finally persevered. Now, the organization is thriving and actively recruiting, while the international fraternity ‘Omega Chi’ has peacefully withered away.
Elena Koulekova, one of the main players within Sigma Delta Phi, says that a lot has changed since spring. The sorority started off with six girls who were the founders, but the leaders have changed a few times. Lead by Elena and Idoia Hidalgo, the sorority now has over 35 members. “In the beginning it was extremely hard, because we started from zero. But now that we see the results of our hard work, it makes us really happy that it has been successful.”
Tons of activities
This girl club is planning to offer business related workshops, invite over guest speakers, implement a language exchange program, a tutoring service, and hold social drinks and dinners. With this much on her plate, Elena doesn’t complain. “I don’t think our sorority fits the traditional stereotype. Our girls are more serious than in equivalent Dutch organizations. We thrive in the business environment, but we can also combine working hard perfectly with parties.”
Dutch can join too
Even though Sigma Delta Phi is in its developmental stages, looking for partnerships and sponsors, Elena says that no matter how long it will take them to fully establish the sorority, they will make it happen. “The girls who joined are really active, excited and all willing to help in developing Sigma Delta Phi.” This is evident on the faces of the new members, like Charlotte Teven. A Dutch girl studying IBA, she says that she wouldn’t join a Dutch sorority because part of studying in IBA is having many international friends.
Lasting impact
Charlotte also highlights that the entire concept of this international organization is great. “There are social events with girls from many different countries, but the aim of the sorority is also to enrich its members in terms of business experiences. I think the business part is what something that is missing in many of the Dutch associations”. Ruoxi Cui, a Chinese student seconds that opinion and adds that Dutch sororities aren’t relevant to many international students’ lives. “I find Sigma Delta Phi meaningful, as we, international girls, finally have our own ‘home’. It is the first official international sorority in Rotterdam, and I can foresee that it is going to last for years to come.” MD
Read also Campus Talk about why international girls do or do not want to join Sigma Delta Phi
