Living Vibrantly

As the Region Nine Inclusion Specialist and Chapter Support Officer for New York Eta, MONICA ELMS has found true fulfillment and even truer friendships through her experience as a Pi Phi volunteer. Read more about her story and what she loves most about our sisterhood.

WHAT MADE YOU INITIALLY WANT TO VOLUNTEER FOR PI PHI? WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO KEEP VOLUNTEERING?

I wanted to meet new people, connect in a new city and become the leadership representation I did not have when I initially joined Pi Phi. I quickly learned that a little effort can be returned tenfold if you’re open to it. What keeps me involved is the rewarding feeling of mentoring collegians and peers to be their best selves; I want to exemplify that we are human first and nothing is more important than our well-being. The fun and friendship also keep me engaged. I couldn’t be more grateful for the diversity of friendships that are made possible through volunteering.

BETWEEN YOUR PERSONAL, PROFESSIONAL AND VOLUNTEER LIFE, HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE?

Having multiple roles can cause competing responsibilities, so I constantly review my priorities. There always will be some sort of sacrifice, and you can’t always make everyone happy, but it’s important to communicate that. I also try to make sure I’m having fun! Stress and burnout can take a toll on the body, so I think it’s important to do what works best for you.

AS A PI PHI VOLUNTEER YOURSELF, WHY DO YOU THINK VOLUNTEERING FOR OUR SISTERHOOD IS SO IMPORTANT?

It’s crucial for those who have the time and means to volunteer because Pi Phi would not exist without its volunteers. There is no perfect organization, but we wouldn’t be a good organization without our diverse perspectives. The more I learn about Pi Phi and its leaders, the prouder I am to be part of this community.

HOW HAS PI PHI MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

As a first-generation college student and child of immigrants with no prior knowledge of fraternity/sorority life, I initially had many hesitations. However, Pi Phi has clearly made a significant impact on my life. It surrounded me with friends who challenged me to grow, created lifelong memories and even led me to my husband. Fraternity/sorority life connected me with people I would’ve never encountered otherwise; these relationships pushed me to dream big and gain confidence. My Pi Phi sisters taught me how to feel beautiful, learn from my mistakes, grieve, and most importantly, have fun. I continue to learn from every member I encounter, and that is what I love most about our sisterhood—meeting people in various life stages and backgrounds that make life so much more vibrant.