The recent release of the Bama Rush documentary on Max has once again brought attention to the sorority rush process at the University of Alabama, particularly its connection with social media and the controversies surrounding it. The documentary follows four prospective new members (PNMs) as they navigate this “monstrous” process, shedding light on the massive mental, emotional, and physical toll that comes with rush week. Aside from the viral TikTok videos and picturesque sorority houses, the documentary offers deeper insights into the complexities and issues plaguing Greek life.
We all just want to fit in
The four PNMs showcased in the documentary come from different backgrounds, yet they all seem to be chasing the same thing – membership in the largest Greek population in the nation. As they prepare for rush week, they express their physical insecurities and strive to present their “best” selves in order to fit into the campus status quo, which can be extra appealing when starting a new chapter in their lives. However, the pressure to conform to specific physical attributes and appearances remains astronomical, especially for women, leading to questions about the role of sororities in promoting such toxic standards.
The weight doesn’t fall solely on sororities
The documentary sheds light on the origins of the ranking system that sororities use, revealing that it came from the Alabama fraternity houses, who ranked based on who had the most attractive batch of PNMs each year. This leads to the realization that men and their preferences play a significant role in perpetuating such toxic standards in Greek life. Additionally, the documentary highlights the standards board’s role in policing members’ online presence, which tends to stoke fear about posting anything “inappropriate” on social media. This ironic division of power brings up questions about the inherent purpose of the Greek ranking system and how it could be redirected towards community service, charity, and social activity.
Sororities can give you a chosen family
The chance at sisterhood is the main attraction for many prospective members, particularly those seeking long-term bonds. However, while sororities offer a unique opportunity to form lasting friendships, the documentary highlights how harmful that sisterhood can still be. Viewing a sorority as an “instant group of friends” is a great marketing strategy, but making friends and participating in philanthropic endeavors are things that one can easily do outside of Greek life. The pressure to conform to sorority expectations and maintain appearances can lead to a feeling of not belonging or being unable to be oneself.
The Five B’s
During the documentary, PNMs are notified of the five things one should never talk to a current member about: Boys, Booze, Bible, Box, and Biden. These topics might come up, but it’s advised for PNMs not to be the ones to bring them up. Conversing about these topics is a sure-fire way to get dropped during rush week, sending a message of exclusion and division to prospective members.
Sometimes you might need a fairy rush-mother
Alabama’s Greek life is so vast that some prospective members hire a rush consultant to guide them through the process. While this may sound ludicrous, it highlights the narrow scope and overwhelming nature of the Greek life process. While a rush consultant may not seem like an ideal solution, it does offer a personalized and nuanced approach to helping young women navigate the massive realm of recruitment.
The secret blacklist does exist
The possibility of being blacklisted is a reality for many PN
<< photo by Anna Shvets >>
