Major Spotlight - Graphic Communications

Hi everyone! My name is Paige Aronhalt and I am a senior Graphic Communications major from Peachtree City, Georgia. 

Growing up, I would spend a couple weeks every summer attending art camps at Rhode Island School of Design where my grandparents went to college. My grandmother was a graphic designer and my grandfather was an architect, so they instilled in me a love for art and design.

Coming into Clemson as a freshman I was undeclared, and had no idea what I wanted to major in. At orientation as an undeclared student, we were encouraged to look through the offered majors and see what stood out to us. My mom and I stumbled upon Graphic Communications and I knew that major was perfect for me. 

Graphic Communications encompasses graphic design, marketing, management, printing and everything in between. GC is such a fun major because we are so hands on with everything we do. Whether it's creating graphics using Adobe software, learning how to build and code our own website, or putting ink into a press, there is never a dull moment in Godfrey. And to make it even more fun, I have my GC besties @jessiehoerner and @laurencurtis sitting beside me in every class. 

As a GC major, we are required to complete two internships before we graduate, one in the summer, and one during a semester in place of regular classes. My two internships have been working with branding agencies, my first being with Brand Culture Company based in Atlanta, GA, and my second and current internship being with Tangible Strategies in Greenville, SC. As an intern for a branding agency, my day to day tasks include calls with clients, managing our clients retainer we have in place, creating graphic posts for social media accounts and doing competitive research to see what competitors are doing.

Upon graduation, I hope to pursue a career working for a branding agency.

— Paige Aronhalt (MC ‘19), Peachtree City, GA

A PNM's Guide to Clemson

When it comes to Clemson, there are a ton of things that we love to do with our sisters. From walking the dikes, to grabbing dinner at Esso, to catching a soccer game after class, we pretty much do it all. Featured in today’s blog is an in depth “tour” of Clemson, Tri D version, brought to you by some of Tri Delta’s very own Clemson Tour guides. Follow along as we show you the ins, outs, ups, and downs of Clemson University!

Meet SOME of our Tour Guides:

From left to right: Caroline Dittner, Kate Garrison, Maddie Grace Bell, and Laney Askins (all in MC ‘20)!

Let’s Talk Food!

One of the best ways to spend time with your sisters is going out to eat in and around Clemson. Hit up any of the downtown spots like Loose Change or TD’s for some great bites. Right by tiger park is a restaurant called Esso, a staple food spot here at Clemson. We absolutely LOVE the fried pickles :). If you’re in the mood for a drive then we suggest Calhoun Corners, Tipsy Taco, Evolve, and of course, Blue Heron!

“Blue Heron is the best place to go for a special occasion or when you’re just feeling like a fancier dinner. Most people go for their sushi but I have to argue that their Clemson Carbonara pasta is unbeat! It’s located in the heart of downtown Pendleton, the cutest town that’s 5 minutes away from campus!” -Maddie Grace Bell, MC ‘20

 

FUN ON WEEKENDS!

There’s no better way to decompress from a week full of classes than with some classic Clemson weekend fun. College is the time to have fun on weekends, so when you get to campus and you experience your first (of many) BEAUTIFUL Saturdays, grab your friends and go have fun! We recommend heading over to the dikes, nearby hikes, Greenville shopping, Lake Hartwell/Keowee, and Y Beach. Trust us, once you go to these places once you’ll want to go all the time!

Walking the Dikes— a fan favorite!

“The dikes at Clemson are the best place to go on a walk with friends to catch up or walk/run for stress relief during a busy week of school! I think the dikes give you one of the best views of Clemson’s campus and Lake Hartwell all at once! There are 3 total dikes and you can pick and choose how far or how many you want to cover! One of my personal favorite activities is walking the dikes with friends on a Saturday morning and ending up at Sole on the Green to refuel with brunch!” -Laney Askins, MC ‘20

“If there’s one ‘hidden gem’ of Clemson that we don’t actually get to show on the tour - it’s the dikes. Whether you’re out there for sunrise, sunset, or just midday to walk your dog, you are GUARANTEED a great view of campus. We always walk all 3 dikes as a huge group and it has been the setting of some of my favorite memories.” - Kate Garrison, mc ‘20

Explore Clemson’s Surrounding Mountain Ranges with a Hike!

“One of the many reasons I chose Clemson was because of its location! Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and right on the banks of Lake Hartwell and Keowee, Clemson has some of the best trails in upstate South Carolina. It’s so fun to grab a friend and hit the trail after a long weekend or before a hard exam!” - Kate Garrison, MC ‘20

Head to Greenville & Do Some Shopping!

Downtown Greenville has some great shops, restaurants, and farmers markets that can make any Saturday so fun! My friends and I love to eat at Cantina 76 which is conveniently located next to Anthropologie :). - Maddie Grace Bell, MC ‘20

 

Studying Can Be Fun.. Sometimes!

It’s inevitable that studying is a huge part of the college experience.. but who said it has to be boring? The best part about Clemson is the amazing hidden study gems where you and your friends can camp out for the day and enjoy a day of studying. We HIGHLY recommend Cooper Library (of course), Douthit Starbucks, “All In Cafe”, Hendrix, and Y Beach (when it’s nice out)

Cooper Library

The perfect mix of study and social. If you’re feeling in the mood to socialize or work on a group project then the 6th floor or the Starbucks on the 5th floor is the perfect place for you! If you’re needing to plug in and get some work done then I love any floor below 4 as there’s tons of cozy individual study places. Each floor is ranked by noise level so whatever mood you’re in there’s a place for you! -Caroline dittner, MC ‘20

All In Cafe

The cinnamon rolls…that is all you need to know. But seriously such a cute coffee shop that’s perfect for a little brunch on the weekends or studying after class when you need a little coffee pick me up! Their lavender lattes are also delicious!! -Caroline Dittner, MC ‘20

 

You’re on Clemson’s Campus… What do you Do Now?

Clemson has one of the prettiest campuses… I mean, we’re basically going to school on a lake. How cool is that?? Anyways, one should make the absolute most of this during their four years on campus! There’s a heap of things to do, but we suggest: reading and relaxing on Bowman field, getting ice cream at 55’ exchange, grabbing Starbucks with a friend, walking around the track during the fall, go bowling across from core, and SO much more! But, when it comes to a Clemson tiger, you know there’s nothing we like to do more than cheer on our tigers. Head on over to a sporting event using your very own Clemson sports app.

Going to Clemson sporting events are so. Much. Fun. while also being a free activity to do with friends. Whether it’s baseball, basketball, or football games, there is always some event happening at least a couple of times a week. All you have to do to attend these events is download the All In Rewards app and scan it at the entrance to the event. One of our friends favorite things to do in the spring is get a group to head to the baseball field, grab a hot dog and hang out and watch the game! Going to these events is a great way to get outside, meet friends, and support our athletic teams! - Laney Askins, MC ‘20

 

Did Someone Say Road Trip???

Another perk of Clemson is how close we are to MAJOR cities! Here’s a list of some perfect places to take a weekend trip with your friends (in order of distance).

  1. Greenville, SC (29.3 miles)

  2. Athens, GA (72.1 miles)

  3. Atlanta, GA (122.3 miles)

  4. Charlotte, NC (137.7 miles)

  5. Charleston, SC (244.3 miles)

No matter where you go or what you do, you are guaranteed to have a fun time in one of these cities!

THANKS FOR TUNING IN!

We hope that you, a PNM can make the most of your Clemson years with some of our helpful tips. We are so excited for to endure the amazing process that is Greek recruitment. Additionally, we hope you have an amazing school year and amazing experiences. We are looking forward to this process a ton and we cannot wait to meet MC ‘22! DLAM <<<3

Recruitment FAQ with Gigi & Gloria!

by Gloria Murray, Vice President of Membership Experience & Gigi Chambers, Director of Recruitment Events

Q: What is a PNM?

A: PNM stands for a “potential new member.” All college students who are interested in joining a Greek Organization and are taking part in the recruitment process are considered a PNM. YOU are a PNM!

Gloria Murray - VP of Membership Experience

Q: What is a Pi Chi?

A: A Pi Chi (pronounced PIE-KAI) is your go-to girl during recruitment! They will lead your “Pi Chi group,” which consists of you and some other PNMS, throughout your recruitment process. All Pi Chis are temporarily disassociated from their sorority and their affiliation is a secret until Bid Day! Together, they guide PNMS through recruitment and all over campus. Pi Chis are there to give you advice, listen, encourage and support you in whatever way you need! 

Pro Tip: Take advantage of having a relationship with your Pi Chi! I had Pi Chi Becca my freshman year. She has since graduated, but we still keep in touch and when she was still at Clemson, we would make time to catch up and see each other. Even after recruitment, she answered all my Clemson-related questions and I would always run into her on campus! She was so kind, generous and caring towards every PNM in my group and will always be a core memory of my personal recruitment experience.

Q: What does Panhellenic mean?

Gigi Chambers - Director of Recruitment Events

A: The Panhellenic Association serves as the governing body for 13 chapters on Clemson’s campus. To keep it simple, DDD is one of the 13 chapters that is a part of The Panhellenic Association. Panhellenic membership at Clemson University is based on four core values: scholarship, sisterhood, leadership and service. Stay up to date with all panhellenic recruitment information by following @clemsonpanhellenic on Instagram and reading the Clemson Panhellenic PNM Guide!

Q: What is a chapter?

A: The term chapter refers to a specific location of a sorority at a particular university or college. For example, we are the Beta Theta chapter of Delta Delta Delta here at Clemson. However, we have sisters in the Alpha Lambda chapter of DDD at the University of South Carolina.

Q: What is Bid Day?

A: Everyone’s favorite day… BID DAY!!!! Bid Day is the conclusion of the recruitment process during which PNMs receive a bid card from a chapter on campus. This marks the beginning of your time as a new member of the sorority you join! Bid Day is a day when sororities welcome their new members into their chapter. It's a time of celebration for each chapter and the new members! Don’t be surprised if you see chapters dressed up in their theme, chanting, dancing and excited to welcome PNMS. It truly is a day to remember! Bid Day makes the recruitment process all worthwhile. On top of all that, Pi Chis reveal their chapter affiliations which adds some extra fun. Check out these memories from past years’ bid days!

Q: How do I register for Recruitment?

A: To register for recruitment, you should visit the Clemson Panhellenic website: clemsonpanhellenic.com. Once you reach the website click on the Recruitment tab, and then inside that tab click About, or visit clemsonpanhellenic.com/about. Here you will find the exact instructions on how to register for recruitment, the link to register, and what you need before you can register, which includes a transcript, payment, and your Round 1 video submission. Instructions for the round one video can be found on the link to review what you need in order to register for recruitment. The form should take around 30 minutes to complete. Recruitment registration will close on August 1st 2022 at 11:59pm EST.

Q: Do I need to submit a letter of recommendation?

A: Letters of recommendation are not required to submit. Our chapter uses “values-based recruitment” to attract and recruit PNMS on the basis of their individual values. We care more about who YOU are rather than how many letters of recommendation you have submitted. However, if you are aware of a DDD almuna who is looking to write you a letter of recommendation, you are more than welcome to submit!

Q: How long does recruitment last?

A: Recruitment this year occurs from August 17th to August 22nd. All four rounds of recruitment and Bid Day will take place before the first day of class.

August 17th - Round 1 (No in-person rounds due to video submissions)

August 18th - Round 2, Day 1

August 19th - Round 2, Day 2

August 20th - Round 3, Day 1

August 21st - Round 3, Day 2

August 22nd - Round 4, Day 1

August 23rd - BID DAY!!!

We are counting down the days until we get to meet each of you in August! Yes, recruitment can be daunting and nerve-wracking. But, it is also rewarding and exciting. Our advice is to use it as an opportunity to be outgoing, meet new people (even in your Pi Chi groups) and find a group of girls  that makes you feel at home. Pay attention to who makes you feel special, and pay attention to where you feel comfortable. We are both so lucky to be surrounded by people who love us unconditionally and serve as a constant support system no matter the circumstance. We can’t wait for you to find that too. See you all in August and for now, have a fun and safe summer! 

DLAM, Gigi & Gloria <3

https://www.clemsonpanhellenic.com/

#WHYTRID w/ Lily Helander!

Today on #TriDeltaTuesday senior Lily Helander tells us her #WHYTRID 🌈💘 Lily is a  member of MC ‘20, an Art major, and she’s from Fanwood, NJ !

“While my time in Tri Delta has brought me so many amazing friends, 3 stick out to me the most. My big, Reagan Castles, is one of the biggest blessings I have in my life. Whether it’s a late night sleepover, a quick target run, or a shoulder to cry on I know she is always there. My wicked smart little, Lily Ferrante, is my second greatest blessing. She is someone who I constantly find myself looking up to, and someone who’s presence never fails to put a smile on my face. My third greatest blessing is my other little Katie Beck. She is the SUNSHINE of any room she is in, and a true light in my life. I am beyond proud to call these 3 ladies my friends and I can never thank Tri Delta enough for giving them to me. My advice to anyone who is thinking about joining a sorority- DO IT because you never know who you’ll meet and I promise after you meet them you’ll never know how you lived without them!!💙” - Lily

Introduction to New Member Educators!

 

francie Masaschi - new member director

My name is Francie Masaschi and I am from Greenville, SC. I am a Psychology major with a Human Resources minor. I am a member of MC ‘20 and I am your New Member Director for Beta Theta this year! The most important part of my job is making sure that all our new members feel welcomed into their new home of Tri Delta. College along with change, can be really difficult, but as New Member Director, I take on the responsibility of making the transition easy and fun! Being a part of a new sorority comes with so much excitement. You meet so many amazing girls that end up becoming such lifelong friends. Another task of mine is hosting weekly new member meetings where the new members have a time to bond and learn about Tri Delta’s history and values. These meetings were some of my favorite times as a new member because I got to build relationships with my new member class!!

Also, I plan study buddy sessions, a retreat for the new members, initiation, and various bonding activities for the new girls to meet everyone! It is such an amazing experience and I can’t wait to serve as your New Member Director this year!

Some recruitment advice that I have for our PNMs is to not take it too seriously. Enjoy the little moments of standing in line talking to new friends. Every minute of recruitment is an opportunity to grow closer to people you didn’t know before. Take advantage of that and have fun with it!! By being yourself during recruitment, you will find the people that make you shine!!

Xxx Francie  

 

aubrey nguyen - first year experience chair

Hi! My name is Aubrey Nguyen and I’m from Grapevine, Texas, which is about 30 minutes from Dallas. I’m a Nursing major and I will be a sophomore this fall. My position is First Year Experience Chair and I am so HYPE to work alongside Francie to give the new members the best possible experience!! I would encourage the freshmen to get involved and step out of your comfort zone. Being out of state was challenging for me, but just being myself and trying things out of my comfort zone allowed me to make some long lasting connections! I am so so excited for the fall and I can’t wait to meet our new members!

DLAM! - Aubrey

Study Abroad w/ Anna & Ellie!

We are so excited to catch up with Anna and Ellie after a month of their study abroad program in Montpellier, France. Anna is a junior Psychology major and french minor from Columbia, SC, and Ellie is a junior French and International Business major from Charleston, SC.

“Our program is called “Language and Culture in Southern France,” and we live in a student-filled town called Montpellier. We have a cute 3 bedroom apartment right in the center of town. There are other students from Minnesota, Indiana, and even Latvia and Japan. We take classes at a French University with French students. Most of our classes are taught in French, so we have been fully immersed and challenged on a daily basis to learn the language.  This weekend, we took a girls’ trip with other people in our program to Aix-en-Provence. Aix is in the south of France and known for its lavender fields, fountains, wine, and daily open food markets.”

“I have been studying French since I was 6, so I’ve always wanted to live in France once in my life. For my major, I am required to study in a francophone country for a semester. This is the perfect opportunity for me to get fully immersed in the culture and improve my speaking skills. We live in a town in the south of France that is known for its student life because it’s made up of 70% students. We’ve been able to meet lots of local students our age, which has been amazing. I have loved living here and can’t wait to discover more of the country and its culture.” -Ellie

“I started learning French in high school and have always loved traveling and learning about other cultures. Studying abroad in college has always been something I’ve wanted to do, so coming to France this semester was the perfect opportunity! My favorite part so far has been our weekend trip to Aix-en-Provence. We rented an AirBnB with some other girls from our program and shopped at the open markets, dined at local cafés, and I had my first fondue experience!! Ellie and I are super excited for our upcoming trip to Paris with Cece and all of the other fun trips to come.” -Anna

Follow our Instagram to see more highlights of our Deltas abroad! #DDDsOverseas

#WHYTRID w/ Bess & Lily

Hi everybody! My name is Bess Golkin and I am currently a sophomore from Arlington, VA. I decided to go through the recruitment process as a sophomore so that I could focus on adjusting to college freshman year, and this is when I met Lily. We decided early on to become roommates for our sophomore year and over the summer I was talking to her about how I wanted to rush. She initially wasn’t sure about it but she decided to register for recruitment.

To avoid swaying each other, we agreed not to tell each other our thoughts during the week of recruitment. I remember driving over to open our bids and both being full of nerves about what the other would do. When I opened the bid from Tri Delta I was overwhelmed with excitement because Lily had also received the same bid. I’m so happy to have such a great friend that I could experience so many firsts with and I can’t wait for more to come!!

Hey everyone!!!! My name is Lily Ferrante and I’m a sophomore from Long Island, New York. I met Bess my freshman year (we lived in the same dorm) and she quickly became one of my best friends! Summer before sophomore year we would talk about rush all the time, but I was still unsure if it was something I wanted to do. I had met so many girls who went through the recruitment process the year before and they would tell me how it introduced them to so many people, so I decided I would give it a chance.

And I could not be happier with where I ended up! I can still remember what it felt like to walk into Tri Delta on preference day and I knew I felt at home. The girls in Tri Delta are not only some of the most genuine people I’ve ever met, but they’re also not afraid to be themselves and at the same time support one another. I am so grateful to have had all these wonderful experiences with Tri Delt and especially be able to do it with one of my best friends!

Letter Writing - Fall '21

DIRECTOR OF PHILANTHROPY, SYDNEY JARECKI, SENDING OUT OVER 18,000 LETTERS.

Below, new member, Mackenzie Shannon shares her experience at her first stamping party as a Tri Delta. Every year the Beta Theta Chapter participates in a letter-writing campaign for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We write letters to our closest friends and family asking for donations to help end childhood cancer. After we write and package all of our letters on our own, we come together to celebrate and stamp the letters at the Stamping Party.

Hey! My name is Mackenzie Shannon and I am in PC ‘21! This letter stamping party was such a fun event!! It took place at the Madren Center and all of Tri Delta was there, decked out in their best DDD gear. There were lights, streamers, and banners on the walls, as well as fun stamps and markers on the tables to decorate the letters!! The letters we write help raise awareness and donations for St. Jude and the amazing work they are doing for families. So amazing!

At the beginning of the event, a woman joined us on zoom to share her story with St. Jude. She told us about her son and the struggles he faced, and how when she traveled to St. Jude in Nashville, the people there made her and her son feel so comfortable and at home. It was so moving to hear the amazing things St. Jude was doing for families, and it made me even more excited to support this amazing cause.

We worked for over 2 hours, sticking on addresses and stamps, as well as decorating each letter with hearts or smiley faces. It was so fun to be able to get together with all my Delta sisters and work together towards such an amazing cause!! I cannot wait to see what other amazing opportunities Clemson Tri Delta will have to support St. Jude!

Fall '21 Semi Recap

November 19, 2021

Hi, y’all! My name is Kate Garrison and I’m a sophomore in PC ‘20 from Greensboro, North Carolina. I recently had the absolute pleasure of attending our thrift store to couture semi-formal! In my own opinion, this is beta theta’s biggest and most exciting function of the fall semester. Since semi is a two-night ordeal, the fun is nonstop! 

Just when I think I’ve had the best night of my life at a function, Tri Delta steps it up a whole other level. We kicked off Thursday night with the obligatory Greek Quad photoshoot. Since the first night is themed ‘thrift store’, everyone was rocking their best Goodwill and Salvation Army finds. Jennings Searcy even had her mom’s 80s prom dress on! Sequins, ruffles, and ridiculously large bows were abundant as we danced the night away in our outrageous dresses.

Night two, ‘couture’, was even more of a blast. After taking pictures, we loaded onto busses and headed to the venue. For those who know me well, you know I love a good band. My sisters and I showed off our best (or worst if you’re like me) dance moves on the floor as we belted along to beach music classics. The band even let us sing into the microphone for a couple of songs. It’s safe to say that I will not be signing a record deal anytime soon… My favorite part of functions like these is the moments where I stop and take a look around me at all of my beautiful friends. Their beauty reflects not only outwardly through their amazing outfits, but internally through their kind words and thoughtful actions. These girls are funloving, outgoing, and they don’t take themselves seriously.  

Being a current sophomore right now meant that I endured COVID restrictions all throughout my freshman year. Because of this, I headed into this year unaware of what I was missing out on as a first year student and Tri Delta. My experience with Tri Delta and all of our functions this semester has been nothing short of amazing. From hyping each other up during photos, to dancing with one another at the party, I am incredibly proud to be a part of something as special as Tri Delta. 

All the delta love,

KG 

P.S. Special shout out to my big, Meredith Reese, our fearless Director of Social Events! You rock! 




#WHYTRID - Kate Eagles

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Hi y’all! My name is Kate Eagles, or as my friends like to call me, “Keags” !!!!, and I am a Sophomore from Wilson, North Carolina. 

When I reflect on this past year at Clemson, being a part of Tri Delta is definitely the highlight! Last year, I came into rush extremely nervous about being out of state but also so excited to go through the process, even online. Not only was I nervous, but I was very intimidated to begin rush at a school where I knew almost no one. All my fears quickly went away the minute I started talking to girls in Tri Delta. 

One of the first girls I talked to in Tri Delta during rush was Mabry Ramey. She was genuinely so excited to talk to me and made me feel so special just by listening to what I had to say. To this day, I am still talking Mabry’s ear off! Not only Mabry, but every girl I talked to in each round of Tri Delta was so interested in me and my story. 

Tri Delta has not only given me some amazing friendships, but has also strengthened the bond of a pretty special one. I attended a very small all girls boarding school in North Carolina. I remember moving in on the very first day and meeting one of my suitemates, Kate Garrison. She was so sweet and immediately started cracking jokes and making me laugh. Fast forward to the summer before freshman year of college. Kate and I both decided to attend Clemson and were both rushing. On our virtual bid day when I found out I went Tri Delta, I immediately called Kate to find out she had done the same! My first year as a part of Tri Delta has truly been amazing and it is because of people like Kate. Tri Delta has brought us even closer and I could not have imagined this past year without her. Love you forever miss girl. 

No matter where you are from or who you know, what matters at the end of the day is where you feel you belong. Going through rush last year, all of the girls in Tri Delta placed such importance on their motto “bring you” and this didn’t end on bid day. I created the most genuine friendships that I could’ve ever imagined with girls who encourage me to be my weird, funny, and obnoxiously loud self every day. Recruitment is an amazing way to find your people who share your values, will love you for who you are, and push you to be a better version of yourself. So have fun and bring you!

DELTA LOVE! 

xoxo, Keags

#WHYTRID - Kaki Cobb

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Hey y’all!! My name is Kaki Cobb and I am a rising sophomore from Charleston, SC. 

Looking back on this season last year, I’m in awe of how I’ve grown throughout such a prominent transition in life mixed with possibly the craziest change in the world. I was excited for recruitment and to meet new people, but the experience itself was daunting—in a much different way. 

Going into recruitment, I had doubts about myself since my older sister, Amelia, was a junior Tri Delta at the time. I knew her friends and absolutely adored them, but was scared that would be all Tri Delta saw: Amelia’s little sister. Before recruitment began (and even during it), my mom continuously reminded me to “make my own decisions,” which honestly just left me more confused. 

Flash forward to Round 3, Sisterhood. I had high expectations for what Tri Delta would bring. I was already infatuated by videos and the short conversations I had, one even with my future big. However, what I did not—and could not—foresee was the love I received from then-senior and now Beta Theta alum, Stewart Buxton. Our long conversation simplified down to a feeling of being wanted and loved all through a computer screen. The words, “Kaki I had to fight to talk to you,” followed by the validation from a senior completely took me over. Stewart managed to control my unspoken fears through her personal experiences, relating to each and every one of my emotions. 

After Sisterhood round, a sudden feeling hit me—Tri Delta wanted me. Not the “me” who was Amelia’s sister, but the “me” who related to Mabel, Foster, Stewart, and all of the Tri Deltas I spoke to, saw in videos, and had already met. At this moment, I felt a sense of being and purpose within the chapter, a feeling I was longing for in the recruitment process and hope everyone has the chance to experience. Clemson Tri Delta validated my worth and showed me how to “Bring You,” which I will forever be grateful for. I LOVE YOU, BETA THETA!!! 
DLAM, Kaki

#WHYTRID - Sarah Catherine O'Connell

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Hey y’all! My name is Sarah Catherine O’Connell. I’m from Nashville, Tennessee and am a rising sophomore. I’m also the co-chair (with my bestie MC Springs) of Campus Events for Tri Delt. 

My #1 fear coming into college was no different than most people’s -- making friends. More specifically, I worried about finding friends who were going to embrace all parts of my personality. I vividly remember one of my older friends telling me they didn’t feel like they could be goofy/weird with their new college friends. They felt they could only share the most put together version of themselves. I know as I prepared for college and recruitment, I stressed about clothes, my dorm decor, and how I appeared on social media. It was all about how I presented myself on the outside. Yet, while I spent so much time and energy focusing on the external aspect, my biggest fear was that I would have a hard time finding the right people to know my true heart and full personality. 

During the final round of recruitment, Tri Delt gave me the biggest blessing and exactly what I needed. They showed the deep relationships that are built within our sisterhood and also the totally goofy side. This wasn’t just a cheesy stunt for recruitment either. During Halloween in the fall, I showed up to an event with a lot of Tri Deltas and, behold, there were a ton of our bigs dressed as Despicable Me characters. No, not just as little Agnes with her unicorn, but Vector in the obnoxious orange jumpsuit (shoutout Ellis Turner), Dr. Nefario with the huge ears (shoutout Avery Luce), and Gru with jet black eyebrows and a massive pointy nose (shoutout Abi Stock). This chapter as a whole really embraces our motto “Bring You” - the silliest, most fun, broken, nerdy, and passionate version of themselves.

I have found comfort as I have joined other organizations on campus such as CUGA and Student Alumni Council that I can always find a Tri Delta sister within those organizations to serve as a mentor and role model. Tri Delta is more than just one of the organizations I’m involved in. This chapter has been a foundation, network, and support system across Clemson’s campus. I could not be more thankful for the role models Tri Delta has given me (Stewart Buxton, Liza Lowder, Porter Johnson), the relief I’ve felt being both nerdy, weird, and competitive, and the all around best friends I’ve been fortunate enough to make even in the craziness of this past year. No one is just one thing and no one should feel defined by one friend group, organization, or personality trait. For those going through recruitment and coming into college, look for people who make you feel known deeply and supported broadly -- I know I’ve found that in the people within Tri Delta. 

Notable memories:

  • Waking everyone up at Kate Eagles beach house singing “You Don’t Know You’re Beautiful”

  • Working at Camp Greystone all summer with Jennings Searcy

  • Playing cards with Gwyneth Millican

  • Last week of school hikes and a lakeside lunch with Francie Masaschi and MC Springs

  • Bid Day at the beach with Ryan Pierce and my froomie, Laurel Kunkel

  • Dancing as obnoxiously and as much as possible at Tri Delt formal

  • Jumping the lake off the rowing docks in February

  • Struggling through a semester of online honors macro with Kaki, MC, and Maggie

  • Giving blood with MC Springs…

  • Bringing out our competitive side coaching during Triple Play with Laura Gage

DLAM, Sarah Catherine

#WHYTRID - Katie Goodman

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Hey ya’ll! My name is Katie Goodman and I am a rising senior from Richmond, Virginia. It is hard to believe I only have one year left of college and it has been three whole years since I packed up all my things and drove all seven hours down to Clemson for the first time. 

To be honest, I was completely terrified coming into college. Most people that know me would know that I am extremely close with my family and used to be a complete homebody (I could barely make it a week at summer camp). So going to college so far away from home was definitely a scary thing for me. I barely knew anyone at Clemson, so going into recruitment I really was just looking for people to go out with or grab dinner with, but boy did I gain so much more. I would have never imagined in three short years I would be where I am today, surrounded by the absolute best group of girls I have ever known.

I genuinely thank my lucky stars each and every day for the friends I have found here at Clemson and in Tri Delta. Tri Delta truly emulates their motto “bring you”; all of the girls are so extremely genuine and unique and encourage me to be also. However, they don’t just accept me for who I am but constantly push me to be a better version of myself. We challenge each other and encourage each other to grow, which I think is the most important part of friendship. And our friendships couldn’t be further from surface level-we spend many late nights talking about the deep stuff: our upbringings, beliefs, dreams, goals, and everything in between, or having as we like to say DMC’s (deep meaningful conversations). I have learned so much from these girls and I am in constant awe of their kindness, intelligence, humor, and selflessness. They are future doctors, lawyers, engineers and so much more, and I am entirely confident they will do HUGE things in life. 

As I said, in high school, I was a huge homebody and loved staying in my comfort zone. Now, I feel like I am barely home as I spend most of my breaks visiting people or exploring new places with my friends. The best thing about college is the people you surround yourself with truly do become your family. You grow up together you learn how to be independent, navigate your life on your own for the first time, and grow into a more authentic and mature version of yourself alongside people doing the same. 

So why Tri Delta? Because you will find friends to not only have a good time with but who you can confidently say will be by your side as you walk through life. The people who will cheer you on and encourage you to reach for the stars but also who will catch you on the way down when life doesn't quite go your way. So whether Clemson is hours away from home for you like me or it is right around the corner, my biggest advice is to find friendships that make a home feel a little closer. The girls that I have met in Tri Delta have become my family, my sisters, and I know wherever we go I will always have a home in them. 

DLAM always <3 

#WHYTRID - English Calhoun Walpole

Hey y’all! I’m English Calhoun Walpole, a rising junior from Johns Island, S.C. in PC ‘20. 

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It seems like just yesterday I was starting my freshman year at Clemson. I made the decision that summer to opt out of participating in recruitment; it wasn’t until last summer, the summer before my sophomore year that I decided I would rush. I do not regret not rushing as a freshman. At the time, I just was not sure what I truly wanted out of my college experience. After thinking things over, I decided it would be worth a shot. This time last year, as I prepared for moving into my apartment and going through the recruitment process, I wasn’t sure if I had made the right decision. I thought maybe because I was a sophomore I wouldn’t have a chance at all. I wondered if a sorority was even “my thing.”

While I was going through rush, I had meaningful conversations with many chapters, but as soon as I entered round 2, I realized that Tri Delta stood out in their own way. From philanthropy to sisterhood, Tri Delta checked all my boxes. Without even realizing it, I found myself glancing at my schedule and waiting until I was back with Tri Delt to talk to these girls with whom I connected so easily. In every conversation I had with this chapter, I found that I was truly being myself and that is why it has come so naturally since day one. From the very beginning, Tri Delta always encouraged “bring you.”

So… why Tri Delta? I wish there was a simple answer for the question, but in reality, there are a multitude of reasons. Whether it’s a girl from your high school and hometown becoming your big (shoutout to Cayman Williams), or running into girls at your summer job on the beach who were Tri Delts all over the country, or having one of your best friends, Regan Werner, live ten minutes away from your childhood home for the summer, your connections and relationships with the people in this chapter are lifelong. I look forward to the next two years and couldn’t be more thankful to be a Tri Delta! 

DLAM, English Calhoun Walpole





#WHYTRID - Molly Langella

Molly Langella shares an out-of-state perspective of her #WhyTriD…

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Hey y’all! My name is Molly Langella and I am a rising senior (cue the tears!) from Atlanta, GA. It is absolutely crazy to think about how fast my time here at Clemson and in Tri Delta has flown by! 

It did not take long for me at all to realize that I had found my place when I joined Tri Delta three years ago. As someone who came from out-of-state, I did not have a single friend from home coming to Clemson with me. If you’re in the same boat right now as I was, trust me I get it—talk about intimidating! I had no idea what sorority I wanted to join, but in my mind I knew that I wanted to find a place where I was surrounded by people like me. Everything about Tri Delta exceeded my expectations. Not only did I meet people like me, but I met friends who weren’t like me (which is the best part). Tri Delta brought me so many girls with completely different personalities, backgrounds, talents, and so much more. Everyone in Tri Delta celebrates each other for being unique, which is something that gravitated me to them in the first place. 

I literally get chills when I think about how lucky I got with my friends here at Clemson. I would never have pictured myself living with 20 of my sorority sisters as a senior in college, but here I am! The best part about Tri Delta is how everyone who joins has the same core values. They value kindness to everyone and genuinely just love on people every day. I would not be who I am today without my friends that I have made here in Tri Delt. I am fully confident that in 20 years, my friends that I have now will still be my people because these are lifelong friendships. OH and trust me, we have already started planning our reunions post college (see you guys the last weekend of February every year post-grad ). 

So #WhyTriD? Because you will not only find friends, but I can confidently say that you will find the people who push you to be the best version of yourself. Tri Delta has brought me the people who are my first phone call, the best advice-givers, the most fun, and truly just amazing role models. As a senior, I can say without a doubt that my experience at Clemson would not be the same without my friends here in Tri Delta. I cannot wait to spend one more year with them at Clemson and I cannot wait for y’all to find your people here too! DLAM <3 

#WHYTRID - Kathryn Jones

Below, rising sophomore Kathryn Jones (PC ‘20) shares her #WhyTriD…

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The greatest gift that Tri Delta has given me is a strong support system. Freshman year is hard for everyone, but it became even harder for me whenever anxiety overtook my life. My anxiety prevented me from being my true self, but countless amounts of girls still tried to reach me. It wasn’t until I received professional help that I was able to reach them as well. Women in this chapter were the people I needed to become my best self. They are able to bring out the best sides of my personality which shows me that they are my “Why Tri Delta” every single day.

When I saw an officer position for the Wellness Committee pop up, I immediately wanted to apply. I was inspired by my personal experience with mental health, and I wanted to be able to help other girls in our chapter. One of the most memorable days of my freshman year was sharing my story to the entire chapter as a member of the Wellness Committee. The amount of love, outreach, and support I received not only from my closest friends but from everyone in the chapter was amazing. It was in that moment that I understood that being a member of Tri Delta was much bigger than just myself.

Tri Delta’s motto of “BRING YOU” does not only apply during recruitment, but it continues into your college journey. Women in this chapter saw my personal experience as something that made me stronger and not broken. My friends were able to give me the push I needed to become the person I always wanted to be.

PNMs, I want you to always remember that perfection is never obtainable. No matter what you are facing in your life, the right friends and sisters will accept you just the way you are! I found this to be true in Tri Delta, and I want the same for each and every one of you! Good luck in the recruitment process and remember to just Bring You!

DLAM, Kathryn

#WHYTRID - Laura Gage

Why Tri Delta? The answer is so simple, the people. Last summer, when considering recruitment, I surveyed the extensive advantages of joining a sorority; However, I didn't fully understand the impact and importance of the relationships I would build within my chapter.

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Coming from out of state, where I had lived my entire life and attended the same school for eleven years, the recruitment process was intimidating, to say the least. However, in my first round within Tridelta, I spoke with Ellen Spiers (who is now my big), and if I could describe it in one word, it would be refreshing. The conversation flew with such ease, and I quickly felt so comfortable and welcomed; all my prior inhibitions about rush and college, in general, were replaced with pure excitement for my future at Clemson. When talking to Ellen, her passion for Tri Delta and her friends was so apparent, and I immediately knew that joining this sorority would mean gaining a lot more than Greek letters on a t-shirt.

As rounds continued, Tridelta's motto "bring you" felt evident in each conversation because every girl made me feel wanted and loved for who I was. I felt myself laughing, engaging in heartfelt conversations, and feeling comfortable in my own skin. Looking back, I am so thankful I made this connection during recruitment because I have found the intentional friendships Ellen described during our conversations.

I can confidently say this chapter has connected me with people who embody what it means to be a good friend. Tridelta's values of truth, self-sacrifice, and friendship are evident in so many girls in my pledge class; each of my friends exude kindness and authenticity, displaying the person and friend I strive to be. From bid day to the tearful move-out day—These girls have been by my side. They bring joy into the mundane Douthit dinners, make me laugh until I cry, sprint to the dance floor every function; and most importantly, they became my rock and support system throughout the hardships of college.

Some honorable mentions include Laney Askins helping my clueless self do hair and makeup for every function and Jennings Searcy waking all our friends up at three AM to jump into the reflection pond our last night in the dorm. Or the time we made easter brunch together for the girls whose hometowns were too far away, or all the times Maddie Combs and I spent countless late nights laughing through the tears in the academic success center. Or when Kate Eagles invited 30+ girls to her beach house so that we didn't have to stay apart all of Christmas break.

With that being said, I honestly do not think freshman year would've been so rewarding without this group of women I've found within my pledge class. Even with the national crisis of a pandemic, I felt my experience went well beyond my expectations. Not only did I have a great time my freshman year, but I also met the people that love and support me through it all, and for that, I am eternally grateful and entirely thrilled for what the next three years have in store.

DLAM, Laura (PC ‘20)

#WHYTRID - Ellen Spiers

#WHYTRID from our outgoing Hall Mom Ellen,

Hey y’all it’s Ellen Spiers and I am a rising Junior from Greenville, SC. I am currently the Director of Administration for our chapter!

This past year I was one of the 35 girls in PC 19 that got the opportunity to live on the Tri Delta Hall. I was also slated to the position of being Hall Manager (aka Hall Momma)! It was one of the best experiences, I wish I could live in Norris Hall for the next two years. My time on the hall was so special because I was constantly surrounded by 34 of my sisters and got to become closer to many of the girls in my pledge class that I did not know well before this year! I am thankful for the girls who were always there for me and made this crazy year an unforgettable one.

Some of the best memories I have are with my honorary roommate and go-to closet @LizaSegars, my Core dinner dates (chocolate chip cookies of course) with @MabelTunstall & @PaigeAronhalt, getting advice and studying with the smartest girl @MayaAndrade, making late-night Tik Toks and pizza discoveries @AnnaPeacock, going to the girls who always had a plan for the night @KatiePhung @JessieHorner, and coming home to our chapter room troll @MabryRamey. Thanks to @SydneyJarecki I played more Wii than I did in my childhood and could always count on @laurencurtis for a shower room party. @GeorgiaAnneMattar was always there for anyone in a time of need for literally anything and if you ever wanted a Gilmore Girls marathon @BatesHinsdale was down. I will miss the mornings sitting in our kitchen with daily Starbucks @LizzyMcclure & the uncontrollable laughter from your rap battles @GrahamChitty. To all the hall girls… I love you all lots xoxo💙

I am so excited for PC 20 to move in and Elizabeth Bland to take over!! Get ready for the best year ever!

💙💙DLAM, Ellen

#WHYTRID - Clare Maloney

#WHYTRID from a rising senior Clare,

My name is Clare Maloney and I am a rising senior from Greenville, SC. I am SO excited that we all get to experience recruitment in person and I just can’t wait for everyone to find their place at Clemson. When I started to brainstorm topics that I wanted to write about, my brain was overwhelmed with so many thoughts about how Tri Delta has exceeded my expectations since day one of recruitment. As soon as I walked through the Little John curtains and I felt such a genuine, uplifting presence in the room, the decision on my end was 100% made. 

Although rush was such an important part of the reason I chose Tri Delta, I am here to talk more about what happens after recruitment, leading to some of the happiest moments of my entire life. It is so easy to get caught up in the excitement of joining a new sorority (I was 100% the loudest girl at Bid Day so I get it), but the most important part of being in tri delta is the growth in your relationships after time. Contrary to my personal fears, you don’t fall off the radar after you get a bid. You don’t just get a few cool T-shirts, go to a couple of functions with some girls you barely know, and call it a day. What makes Tri Delta unique is that you become seen, you become important, and you start being molded into the best version of yourself. 

For me personally, I have always been a little loud, a little wild, and a little over the top. I thought I might quiet down once I got to college but lord was I wrong. From the second I ran down Bowman field on bid day in 2018 to this very moment, each and every person in this sorority has made me feel so loved and adored just by being myself. I have the greatest group of friends that I have ever known, I have a Big that has literally become my big sister in every way, and I have a community of girls with the same values and love for life. Every girl in Tri Delta is different, but each one is genuine, kind, intentional, and driven. I said earlier that Tri Delta has exceeded my expectations, and I will say it again. I never expected to meet people with such big hearts and funny personalities. 

I couldn’t picture my life without having met these girls. I am constantly being encouraged, loved, and pushed to be a better version of myself. And that is exactly what I want for you too -- I want you to find the people that bring light into your life and who care about every move you make and things you say because they love you so much. This sorority has brought me the most joy and love that I could have asked for and I would not be who I am today without their encouragement.

RECRUITMENT 2021

Below, our Director of Recruitment shares her insights on the recruitment process…

Hey everyone! My name is Breland Land and I am so excited to serve as this year's Director of Recruitment! I am from Sumter, SC, and I can’t think of a better way to start off our senior year than with in-person recruitment.

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When I think back to my first recruitment experience, I remember being super anxious and eager to meet all the different sororities because I wanted to put my best foot forward. But what made my recruitment experience was how much fun I had visiting with each chapter. Every single sorority welcomed us PNMs with open arms. Even waiting in line for each party was a blast because I met so many girls who are still my friends to this day. We talked through our jitters today and it helped make the nerve-racking experience less scary. I couldn't imagine a better way to begin my Clemson experience!

I chose Tri Delta because every party with Tri Delta felt like I was just chatting with an old friend, even though I had only met them a few minutes before! The girls in Tri Delta truly wanted to get to know me and I felt so welcomed. Every morning when the schedules came out, Tri Delta was the name I was searching for first! My advice for PNMs during recruitment is to find a place that you are excited to return to for each round! I loved Tri Delta then and those feelings have only grown since!