Greek Life on Campus and Food

There are many stigmas and stereotypes associated with the Greek community at colleges, but I am proud to say that the sorority I belong to is nothing like the negative assumptions I have heard. Being in a sorority is a great experience to have at school because, more than anything else, it offers an amazing support system. Perhaps one of my favorite parts about being Alpha Sigma Alpha is that the sorority frequently gives me opportunities to eat or make foods and share them with my sister, other sororities and fraternities and with the entire campus.

Just last weekend, we had a philanthropy event called Mr. UMBC. Essentially, it is a contest between men to compete for the title of Mr. UMBC, and anyone from UMBC is encouraged to attend. Of course, there was food involved. We had a bake sale table with your standard brownies and cupcakes. We also had sodas and chocolate covered strawberries. There were baskets that were auctioned off, and some of them were filled with candy. One of the baskets was baking themed and contained pans, spatulas, and caking mixes.

Raising money for our philanthropies, Special Olympics and S. June Smith Center, frequently involves food. We have multiple bake sales through out the year. This is a common practice at UMBC, and it is my recommendation that new student carry a couple dollars with them when going to classes. You can have a snack to help you get through a boring lecture, support other groups on campus, and your money will go to a good cause.

Alpha Sigma Alpha also has restaurant fund raisers. People bring a flyer to a particular place, and part of the profit the restaurant would make goes to a charitable cause. To support the fundraiser, all you have to do is bring a flyer and enjoy a meal.

There are many ways we find to give each other food and candy. If I ever wanted an amazing meal from our best cook, all I have to do is ask. Candy is passed out during some meeting. Also, food is always brought to special occasions and big events. Food is a huge part of Greek Life at UMBC, and is one of my favorite parts.

- Danielle