Convention 2010: Experience the Sisterhood

This being my second convention I felt pretty confident that I had packed all the right things and knew what to expect in terms of the overall structure. Tradition is a big part of Greek life and I couldn't imagine that my second experience would be all that different from the first. I was WRONG, but in a really great way. When I attended in 2008 I found a deeper connection to the "Lifetime of Sisterhood" which was in fact the theme of our general meetings. And as the ladies of ZTA always do, we were presented with a new initiative, "Experience the Sisterhood". That is exactly what we did for 6 glorious days, and when I say days I mean 6am-1am days! Now this week was only a taste of the AMAZING experiences I have been assured will ensue throughout my time on the road (many of the alumnae we had the pleasure of working with were past TLCs).

The countdown to convention began in early April when myself and the other 16 TLC received our very first email from IO "detailing" what was go come in the month ahead. We weren't exactly prepared for what our volunteer services at convention would be, but we had a date and a list of names. July 6th would be the day ZTA brought together 17 wonderfully talented leaders from across the country. We immediately bonded and began telling stories. There was an instant kindred sisterhood between each of us. By the time I arrived back a the hotel from airport duty with Robyn and Sami, my wonderful roommate Lexie had found all my luggage and had it all laid out for me on my bed with a cute note!! Just what I needed as I was rushed to make it to our first TLC task, the parade of National Council. (See Picture Below).

It was obvious, as we joyfully put on these ridiculous outfits, that there was a common thread linking all of us. Not necessarily insanity, more of an overwhelming love to do what ever we can for ZTA. This thread is what will keep us all connected as we set off in a million different directions at the beginning of August.

For most of us this was the first trip out of the house for our new luggage and our first attempts at packing for the unpredictable and impossible. I can only speak for myself but the luggage held up GREAT and the packing could be improved upon, but this next time around I plan on spending two to three days packing everything just right. My organization, or lack there of, as the week went on was less than impressive. I am going to have to find a better system to keep my items in my suitcase more organized and out of the way while on the road. I think a little extra time in the mornings and running with a little more sleep each day might just improve that situation.

The business of the convention consisted of a new presentation of the next phase of My Sister My Responsibly, election of a new National Council, Performance of the Epsilon Step Team, and Special Guest DJ Scrilla and his new ZTA rap. All part of the wonderful experience that is the sisterhood of ZTA.