“Honestly, I felt bad for the girls standing in the heat!” Samara laughed, reflecting on how she became involved with Pi Beta Phi at the University of South Carolina.

It was the first week of her sophomore year, and SAMARA COLLINS felt like she had found her place in school. She was a member of the Pre-Med Club, she worked as a University Orientation Leader and she had a close circle of friends she knew from high school. Until one day, when Samara was on her way to class.

“Leadership Development Consultants from Pi Beta Phi were tabling on our campus. They were so enthusiastic to share the news about their organization, even though it was so hot out! I felt bad for them, so I took some of their materials — a pin and a brochure.” But what was supposed to be a kind gesture, ended up being a decision that would completely change her college experience.

When Samara made it back to her apartment, she read the brochure from cover to cover. She was impressed and wanted to learn more. Samara then went to the Pi Beta Phi website and found herself feeling connected to the organization. She felt the values aligned with her own, and knew she needed to talk more with the enthusiastic tabling LDCs.

“I chatted with Abby Camp for a long time. I asked her so many questions. As we talked, I knew more and more that Pi Phi was an organization I wanted to be a part of. At first I dipped my foot in, but before I knew it I was immersed in Pi Beta Phi.”

When asked what her favorite part about being a member of Pi Phi was, the list was endless. “Most importantly though, sincere friendship. The women in our chapter understand what it is to care for people well, and that’s what being a sister is all about.”