What is Sorority Recruitment?

Sorority recruitment is the process through which potential new members (PNMs) have the opportunity to meet and engage with the sororities in the Panhellenic community. This experience allows PNMs to learn about each chapter’s values, sisterhood, and philanthropic efforts while also forming meaningful connections.

Recruitment is a mutual selection process where both PNMs and chapters determine the best fit. As PNMs explore and decide on their preferred chapters, chapters also make selections based on their values and membership criteria. This process creates a meaningful and intentional match, ensuring both PNMs and chapters find the right fit for lifelong sisterhood.

Recruitment can take place in a structured, formal format or through an informal, continuous open bidding process. At USF, we have formal recruitment in the fall and continuous open bidding (COB) in the spring.

Spring COB Recruitment

Unlike fall recruitment, spring COB is a flexible process where only some chapters participate if they have open spots. With no structured rounds, COB offers a relaxed way to connect with chapters through events like coffee chats or sisterhood activities. Since chapter participation varies, PNMs should follow USF Panhellenic for updates on spring recruitment.

Fall Primary Recruitment

Fall recruitment consists of multiple rounds, each helping PNMs and chapters make informed decisions as they mutually select one another:

  • Spirit Day – PNMs meet all chapters and get an introduction to Panhellenic life.

  • Philanthropy Day – Learn about each chapter’s national and local philanthropic efforts.

  • Sisterhood Day – Experience the unique bonds and traditions within each chapter.

  • Preference Round – A deeper, more personal look at a chapter’s values and rituals before making a final decision.

The experience concludes with Bid Day, an exciting celebration where PNMs receive their invitations to join a chapter and officially become a part of the Panhellenic community!

Rho Gammas – Your Recruitment Guides

PNMs will not go through this journey alone. They will be assigned a Rho Gamma, a trained recruitment guide who is there to support them throughout the process. Rho Gammas disaffiliate from their chapters during recruitment to provide unbiased guidance and answer any questions PNMs may have about making decisions, navigating rounds, or understanding the recruitment process.

At USF, Panhellenic recruitment is designed to be a values-based and mutual selection experience, helping PNMs and chapters align on shared ideals and sisterhood. We encourage all interested students to participate with an open mind and be themselves throughout the process!

Fall Primary Recruitment Rounds

Day 1 - Spirit Day

Spirit Day is the first round of fall sorority recruitment at USF, introducing PNMs to the Panhellenic community in a welcoming and supportive environment. PNMs will meet all 10 sororities, each to learn about their values and sisterhood. This day is all about excitement, first impressions, and forming connections. At the end of the day, PNMs will reflect on their conversations and prefer the 8 chapters they felt the strongest connections with, while 2 will be preferred lower. However, recruitment is a mutual selection process, meaning chapters also make their own selections. The next day, PNMs may be invited back to up to 8 chapters, depending on these mutual choices.

Day 2 - Philanthropy Day

Philanthropy Day is the second round of fall sorority recruitment at USF, giving PNMs the chance to explore the philanthropic missions and service efforts of each chapter. PNMs may meet with up to 8 sororities, engaging in meaningful conversations about their impact and how service is woven into sorority life. During this round, PNMs will learn about each sorority’s philanthropy, what it stands for, and why it is meaningful to the chapter. This day is all about discovering how sisterhood extends beyond campus and into the greater community. At the end of the day, PNMs will prefer the 5 chapters they felt the strongest connections. Chapters will also make their own selections, meaning PNMs may be invited back to up to 5 chapters the next day, depending on mutual decisions.

Day 4 - Preference Day

Preference Round is the final and most meaningful round of fall sorority recruitment at USF, offering PNMs the chance to deeply connect with the chapters they feel the strongest bond with. During this round, PNMs may visit up to 2 chapters, to experience their sisterhood on a more personal level. This day is reflective and intimate, as chapters share special traditions, values, and what their sisterhood truly means to them. PNMs will hear heartfelt stories from members, gaining insight into the lifelong impact of joining their organization. Preference Round is designed to help PNMs make their final decision by envisioning where they feel the most at home. At the end of the day, PNMs will submit their final chapter selection. Chapters also will be making their final selections. Marking the last step before the excitement of Bid Day.

Day 3 - Sisterhood Day

Sisterhood Day is a special part of fall sorority recruitment at USF, where potential new members get an inside look at what makes each chapter’s bond unique. This round focuses on the values, traditions, and lifelong friendships that define sorority life. PNMs will meet with up to 5 chapters, hearing personal stories from members, learning about chapter events, and seeing how each sisterhood creates a supportive and empowering environment. This day is all about finding connections and discovering where you feel most at home, helping PNMs envision what being part of a sorority truly means beyond recruitment. At the end of the day, PNMs will prefer the 2 chapters they felt the strongest connections. Chapters also will make their own selections, meaning PNMs may be invited back to up to 2 chapters the next day, depending on mutual decisions.

Day 5 - Bid Day

Bid Day is the most exciting and anticipated day of fall sorority recruitment at USF! This is when potential new members receive their bids, or invitations to join a sorority, and officially become a part of their new sisterhood. After receiving their bid, PNMs celebrate with their chapter and meet their new sisters in a fun, welcoming environment. Each sorority hosts its own Bid Day festivities, which can include photos, bonding activities, and chapter traditions. Bid Day marks the beginning of a lifelong journey in the Panhellenic community, filled with friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences.

Orientation Night

PNM Orientation Night is an exciting opportunity for registered Potential New Members to learn about the recruitment process and feel prepared for the journey ahead. At this event, you'll receive your PNM bag, which includes important materials like your recruitment handbook and the shirt you'll wear on Bid Day. You'll also meet your Rho Gammas, who are there to support and guide you throughout recruitment. This is a great chance to ask questions, connect with fellow PNMs, and start building relationships before the first round begins!

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • You can sign up for Primary Recruitment by completing the registration form on the USF Panhellenic website when registration opens. Be sure to submit all required information and pay the registration fee before the deadline. For specific dates and details, check USF Panhellenic’s social media pages or website regularly. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the Panhellenic Vice President of Recruitment!

  • Continuous Open Bidding (COB) is an informal recruitment process for chapters with available spots after Primary Recruitment. It’s a more relaxed way to meet chapters and receive bids. Check USF Panhellenic’s social media for updates!

  • Being a legacy (having a family member in a sorority) does not guarantee a bid, as each chapter has its own policies. While it may be considered, all PNMs are given equal opportunity during recruitment. The best approach is to keep an open mind and find the chapter that feels like the best fit for you!

  • A recommendation letter is a letter written by a sorority alumna on behalf of a PNM to introduce them to a chapter. While some PNMs choose to submit them, they are not required for recruitment at USF. Chapters do not expect or give preference based on recommendation letters, so they are completely optional!