We asked, another volunteer answered.
From your perspective, what are the greatest benefits of volunteering for Alpha Phi?
Volunteering for Alpha Phi has been rewarding, both personally and professionally. One of the biggest benefits is the network — connecting with women across the country and different career fields, opening doors and opportunities you might not access on your own. It also creates meaningful friendships that extend well beyond college, into motherhood, leadership roles and more. Serving as an advisor is especially fulfilling because I get to mentor young women as they grow into confident leaders, navigate executive board responsibilities and prepare for life after graduation. Volunteering can be flexible, impactful and deeply rewarding, and that’s why I keep coming back . — Atlee Matthews Smith (Epsilon Delta-Northern Illinois), chapter advisor of Epsilon Beta- Butler
Have you formed any lifelong friendships through your volunteer journey? During my first year as a volunteer, the chapter had an educational leadership consultant for recruitment, Cenie Arellano (Eta Theta-San Francisco State) ! We spent the entire week together and instantly clicked. Now, almost four years later, we still catch up over text and try to meet up whenever we find ourselves in the same city. I’m forever grateful our paths crossed through Alpha Phi. From your perspective, what are the biggest benefits of volunteering for Alpha Phi? The biggest benefit for me has been staying connected to Alpha Phi. For many people, it can feel like just a college phase, but volunteering allows you to see the Fraternity from an entirely new perspective. It’s also an incredible way to build your network. Our advisory board at Iota Gamma is made up of accomplished, successful women who are always willing to offer a recommendation, lend a helping hand or share advice. They’re generous with their time and genuinely happy to serve as
professional connections. It’s such a unique opportunity to work alongside women who have so much to offer both within Alpha Phi and beyond. For members considering volunteering, especially soon-to- be graduates, what advice or encouragement would you offer? My biggest advice is simple: if you can make the time, do it. Life is busy, but volunteering is incredibly rewarding and worth prioritizing if it’s something you’re interested in. It gives you a meaningful focus outside of work and everyday responsibilities, and it’s a chance to pass on what you’ve learned and truly make an impact. There’s nothing more fulfilling than being a role model and giving back to an organization that once gave so much to you.
7 7
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software