UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Ashley Lebron, a Penn State senior majoring in secondary education and social studies, said she initially had doubts about joining a sorority, but as she met members of the community through her involvement in student organizations like the BLUEprint Peer Mentoring Program, she began to realize that this community had much to offer. 

At Penn State, joining the fraternity or sorority community can often be seen as more than just a college experience — it’s a tradition that brings students together, fostering community, leadership and personal growth that help shape them for life beyond campus.

Many students enter college uncertain about joining a fraternity or sorority only to find that the community offers benefits far beyond the stereotypes heard. Penn State’s fraternity and sorority community focuses on philanthropy, academic support, and provides a unique space for students to develop skills, connect with others and build long-lasting networks.

For Lebron, the journey into sorority life began with similar reservations.  

“When I first came to Penn State, I didn’t want to join a sorority at all. I had this idea that Greek life was all about partying and cliques,” she shared. “But as I got to know more people who were involved, I saw how much more it was. The friendships, the support, the leadership skills they gained — it wasn’t anything like what I expected.” 

Lebron connected with individuals who were transparent about their experiences, showing her a side of the community that was positive, inclusive and committed to supporting one another. Inspired by the conversations and moved by the positive experiences, Lebron eventually joined the Phi Alpha chapter of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc., a multicultural sorority that is a part of the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC). She found herself surrounded by people who helped her gain confidence, grow personally, and become a part of a supportive community she now considers essential to her college experience.  

Since joining, Lebron has continued to flourish personally and academically. Before her involvement, she said, she was less open and self-assured, but her sorority gave her the space to step out of her comfort zone, build close relationships and gain the courage to lead. She said she's had the opportunity to connect to many people that she wouldn’t have normally — she has been invited to perform at other universities, spoken at many Penn State events, and made many connections with Penn State leadership and other staff who have mentored her. This year she was one of three winners of the Guide State Forward Award given during Homecoming, where she stood beside other students on the homecoming court from the fraternity and sorority community.

As the current vice president of chapter operations for her organization, she has had the opportunity to develop a stronger sense of communication and teamwork, honing her organizational skills and connecting her with other driven students. 

Academically, her sorority taught her how to manage time effectively and balance her studies with extracurricular activities. The consistent study hours, check-ins, and academic workshops have enhanced her academic experience, she said. She received the Provost's Award, which is given to students nominated for their academic achievement, and more recently received the Future Trustee Scholarship from Student Leadership and Involvement. 

Through fraternity and sorority life, Lebron has also found a commitment to serving and giving back to her community. Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc. regularly participates in hands-on community service and philanthropic projects.  

“We’re really hands-on with our community involvement,” she said. “Every semester, we set goals for our service hours, and it’s more than just fundraising. We do things like volunteering at the Arboretum at Penn State and spending time at nursing homes. It’s important to us to make a real impact, and being able to connect with others through service has given me a better understanding of giving back.” 

These experiences have given Lebron and her sorority a deep appreciation for community engagement, she said, showing her the impact that small acts of service can have.  

Lebron said, that, while fraternity and sorority life can at times be misunderstood, her experiences help to illustrate its true benefits — it has allowed her to connect with students, alumni and mentors who have guided her throughout her collegiate journey. As she prepares to graduate in May, she reflected on the support and encouragement she’s found within.

“My sorority has given me friendships, confidence and a support system I wouldn’t have found otherwise,” said Lebron. “Penn State is huge, and it’s easy to feel lost. Being part of a smaller group within the larger campus community has helped me thrive. My sorority has not only shaped my college experience but given me a support system I’ll carry with me long after graduation.” 

For more information on Penn State Fraternity and Sorority Life, a division of Student Affairs, and how students can join, visit the Fraternity and Sorority Life website.