WEDNESDAY, MAY 12, 1999

Set precedent by respecting self first, others will follow

The May 5 article, "Think twice before judging sorority sisters," struck me as a sad case of insecurity.

I'm sorry to hear that Elizabeth Curry thinks she is a victim of stereotypes.

She mentioned peoples' perceptions of Greeks being drunken partygoers who cannot pass a class. The fact is many people know that this is not all Greeks.

We are well aware of the positive efforts put forth by many

sororities and fraternities, but your fellow sorority sisters and fraternity brothers aren't sitting around the Nugget discussing community outreach or the academic achievement of their peers.

Instead of whining about how no one respects you, try promoting a more positive image.

Who cares about what was written in a student paper?

You, Elizabeth as a public relations journalism major should have an appreciation for satire.

The truth is, if the Greek system had such a negative image, there wouldn't be millions of people involved in it today.

If you honestly think you professors are treating you with disrespect because of your Greek affiliation, I recommend taking it up with the proper officials.

If you think you are getting dirty looks in class, try looking in the mirror, maybe the look on your face seems just as dirty to those you think are looking at you. Maybe you have a booger?

Maybe the looks you perceive as dirty are actually the blank stares most students have when they don't feel like being in class in the first place.

I suggest the next time you get one of these looks, smile and say "hello".

I am against stereotyping. And stereotypes do exist. But maybe if you were not so self conscious about yourself, you wouldn't assume every action was a result of your sweatshirt. Be proud of who you are, and others will respect you for that.

 

­ Jeshima DeVine

art/marketing major

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