00:00If your social media feed looks anything like this right now, congratulations, you've made it to Rush Talk.
00:07That's the corner of TikTok where potential new members, or PNMs, and current sorority members show off outfits, activities, and all the social dynamics of recruitment.
00:18But like most big trends these days, it can come with a pretty big price tag.
00:24Greek life may come with stereotypes, but for many, getting a bid to your dream house is a true milestone.
00:35Its popularity is easy to see, from social media to documentaries like HBO's Bama Rush.
00:41Being in a sorority will help me figure out the person I want to be.
00:46The process means multiple rounds of meeting and talking with different houses, trying to make a great first impression.
00:52And that's where consultants come in.
00:55Stacia Dameron of Hiking and Heels Consulting tells me she has 300 girls going through the rush process this week alone.
01:03I also spoke with Tricia Addix, founder of It's All Greek to Me.
01:07She says social media's constant stream of content can make it hard not to play the comparison game.
01:13These girls have put in so much effort to get into college that we really don't want them to drop the ball once they're in, you know, trying to achieve the next goal, which is to find your people.
01:26From outfit of the day posts to rush-themed hauls, the pressure to look the part can push some to buy the trendiest and priciest brands.
01:34You don't have to wear the brands to get into a sorority.
01:40I mean, you can rock a Target outfit, and if you're rocking it, that's way better than someone who's wearing Love Shack fancy and is not confident in it.
01:50According to Bankrate, the average cost of joining a sorority is $1,000 to $4,700 per semester, covering application fees, dues, and other even expenses.
02:01But Addix says consultants like herself can help families understand the best ways to make it work.
02:07There may even be financial aid options available.
02:10And while social media may be driving interest, Addix believes it also means the process may need some adjustments if popularity keeps growing.
02:20I just see that it's going to become more difficult, more competitive.
02:25Some changes are going to have to be made in order to have girls not be heartbroken.
02:30Not everyone who goes through Rush gets a bid, and Addix advises focusing on the prep you've already done and staying grounded.
02:38Avoid the comparison game.
02:41Don't go on TikTok and Instagram when you're going through Rush.
02:47And have a support squad in place before you go.
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