Pi Beta Phi Fraternity has been the biggest part of Michigan Beta Haley Schatz’s college experience and for that, she is so thankful. A junior from Waterford, Michigan, Haley came to the University of Michigan to study neuroscience in the hopes of going to Physician Assistants School. And in a huge University of 40,000 undergraduates, Pi Phi has provided a home away from home in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Haley immediately fell in love with the Pi Phis who showed genuine love for our Fraternity core values. She was also especially drawn to Pi Phi knowing that she could participate in philanthropy as a member. In high school, Haley was involved in the National Honors Society in which she focused on completing 100 hours of community service each year. When she came to college, Haley wanted to find a way to still volunteer and give back. Members of the Michigan Beta Chapter volunteer at Allen Elementary School during “Lunch Bunch.” Haley has worked in the computer lab and with students struggling in math. She often looks forward to this opportunity as she has formed close bonds with the kids over time.

Another activity Haley loves is the “Puppies on the Porch” philanthropy event the chapter co-hosts with Sigma Chi Fraternity. Each spring, the chapter raises funds for the organizations’ respective philanthropies; Pi Phi’s fundraising effort are donated to Pi Beta Phi Foundation. The event is hosted at the Sigma Chi front porch in which attendees pay to play with puppies and dogs brought in by a local organization. Refreshments and raffle tickets are also sold during the event. This popular fundraiser is geared towards providing a de-stressing opportunity for the students.

In reflecting about her Pi Phi experiences, Haley understands what her membership has done for her college experience in allowing her to continue to serve others and meet so many people. “I cannot imagine where I would be if Pi Phi was not a thing in my life,” says Haley. “It pushed me as individual – academically, socially and emotionally.”