“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”- Steve Jobs

It was incredibly disappointing to learn of Mr. Jobs’ death yesterday. I consider myself somewhat of an Apple junky/ Apple marketer’s dream! More than just making cool products, Steve Jobs created something radically different, and in doing so- inspired a generation. I think we could all really learn something from Jobs. Even in our Greek communities, his message can be utilized.

I have discussed my Greek journey many times throughout this blog, but in case you missed it here’s a quick recap- My chapter was comprised of the founding members of the the only nationally affiliated sorority on our campus. While it may not seem like a big deal to outsiders, especially non-Greeks, to us it was everything; and on our campus, it was radical. At our university, things were pretty set in stone- you didn’t mess with the status quo…until we did. Yes, it was difficult and yes we failed many times, but eventually we succeeded, and I truly believe that the school is better for it. Now, the university is expanding at rapid speed, almost too quickly to keep up. Am I saying that a new sorority on campus caused that chain reaction? Not necessarily…but maybe it sparked something, and maybe it got the ball rolling.

Mr. Job’s was 100% correct in his quote. You don’t have to think inside the box anymore. Having a problem with your Greek Life system? Don’t be afraid to make a change. Don’t be afraid to be the one person or the one chapter who takes a stand. Not every chapter is the same, even if they are on the same campus. You don’t have to do what others do, find ways to be unique. Who knows what you could spark! Innovation isn’t just for engineers, its for anyone who wants to take something and make it better. There are always ways you can improve your chapter or university, so be creative and courageous. Don’t just settle for the norm.