Currently, I am avoiding packing, because let’s face it, packing is the worst. I’m all for preparation but deciding what clothes to wear in advance without back up is always a struggle. I am, however, proud of myself for packing for 10 days in a carry on earlier in the summer. This trip requires more preparation though because I’m going to the Alpha Kappa Psi Convention in New Orleans!!

Excitement is an understatement. This is my face though. Or at least it will be once I’m packed and awake after trekking to New Orleans at 6:15 am.

But while I’m preparing for such a fantastic experience, I thought it would be a good time to explain what Alpha Kappa Psi is, at least at South Carolina, and why I chose to join. There are some distinct similarities and differences in a trade fraternity in comparison to a sorority or fraternity.

1. Successful People: Surrounding yourself with successful people with successful habits tends to rub off on you. Most let you pick their brain about classes, internships, balancing it all, and everything in between.
2. Connections: Brothers tend to post interesting things they come across, whether job opportunities, interesting articles, and cool events going on in the area.
3. Alumni Network: Many group boast about their alumni network but trade organizations help you connect with them. Opportunities such as conventions and LinkedIn groups connect you to past members with the other connections.
4. Professional Development: Trade groups tend to focus on what is going on in the trade. The goal is to allow members to further their skillset and expand their knowledge in an array of relevant topics.

These points seem similar to the rest of Greek Life across campuses. The difference lies in the focus of the organization: personal growth in the trade. As a result, they tend to be co-ed. Some limit based on major, while others do not. Ultimately, it depends on what you would like to get out of an organization. Many seem the same on the outside but the individual composition make the differences.

Like the rest of life, finding happiness in an organization comes from the type of fulfillment you would like to get out of an organization. Once you decide what’s best for you, move forward and make it happen. I have been fortunate to find a group of people who challenge me to become better while still giving me someone to laugh with at any point in time.

If you have any questions about joining a professional or trade organization or about Alpha Kappa Psi itself, comment below!

Rainbows and Rocket Ships,

Ann-Marie