Attending the Alpha Delta Pi Officer Academy in Orlando was a transformational experience for me. The opportunity to immerse myself in an environment dedicated to leadership, growth, and the values of sisterhood has truly enriched my life. It was during this event that I had the privilege of listening to the incredibly inspiring Tina Robilotta, whose words resonated deeply within me, altering my entire perspective on Sisterhood. Her impactful message has instilled in me a renewed commitment to upholding the ideals of Sisterhood, and why every single woman on this earth deserves it.

Sororities are known for fostering life-long connections, sisterhood, and deep friendships. While I have always appreciated the significance of these elements within the sorority experience, I have never fully dissected the essence of sisterhood, and what it entails to embody the role of a supportive and compassionate sister and friend.

Sisterhood cannot exist without care: Sisterhood is a bond that thrives on genuine care and mutual understanding. Each organization is filled with a multitude of diversity, and it can be very easy to disagree with your sisters because of your differences. However, to care for your sisters, regardless of your differences, is the first step to achieving sisterhood.

A support system: When passing someone and asking "how are you," the response is often a brief and superficial exchange. The question is often more of a formality and for manners purposes instead of genuine question. A sister who genuinely cares about your well-being, will ask how you are, and really mean it. They should be a safe space for you to express your feelings and thoughts without judgment. Their intention is to go beyond a casual greeting, and they truly want to know how you are and support you. Sisterhood cannot exist without your sisters being your unwavering support system.

Your sisters are not your competition: Girls are often competitive with each other, striving to outdo one another in various aspects of life. However, it's important to recognize that true friendship is not about competing with each other, but rather supporting and uplifting one another. During Tina’s presentation, she quoted Brene Brown, another motivational speaker, about her outlook on true support from your sisters. She described success and achievement as a lit flame on a candle, and she asked us: Does your sister see your candle, do everything in their power to fan your flame to help that fire grow, or does she blow it out? Friendships and sisterhood cannot co-exist with jealousy. Surround yourself with sisters who help your fire grow, and practice the same for your sisters. Your sisters are your teammates, not your competition.

During Tina’s presentation, she had us do an exercise where we got up from our seats and found a complete stranger to talk to. That day I met the VP Of Membership Experience from the College Of Charleston’s ADPi chapter, Bridget Lovely. Bridget was one of the most sincere and genuine people I had ever met, and during our brief time talking, I got the chance to know her heart. We talked about why we had taken up leadership positions in our chapter, or purpose in ADPi, and what the sisterhood we had meant to us. It dawned on me that while Bridget was so kind, compassionate, and understanding, that she was just like every single girl in that room. We all have a story; things we aren't proud of, things we are proud of, and what makes us, us. Despite the variety of different personalities, opinions, and differences, every single human being in that room deserved a love true sisterhood brings.

I learned that day that creating true sisterhood is not hard, and it’s not magic. It is a connection and moments that are always worth your time. Every single woman deserves a woman in their life that makes you feel cared about, understood, and supported unconditionally. Sisterhood is something you, me, and every single woman on this earth deserves.