As someone who values a good night’s sleep, I typically hit the hay by 10 PM at the latest. However, that routine was thrown off recently as I found myself engrossed in the whirlwind world of #BamaRush well past midnight. If you’ve been caught up in this TikTok trend, you understand the allure. So, grab your sweet tea, curling iron, and that trendy dress you love—let’s dive into the excitement of sorority rush at the University of Alabama.
If you’re familiar with college life, especially Greek life, you know about sorority rush. It’s an exhilarating time when potential new members (PNMs) arrive on campus weeks before classes start to begin their journey into sorority recruitment. The recent rush at the University of Alabama went viral on TikTok, captivating audiences everywhere.
According to The New York Times, the rush process comprises four key rounds: the Open House, where PNMs meet all the sororities; Philanthropy Day, where they learn about the chapters’ charitable efforts; the Sisterhood round, involving individual time with sorority members; and Pref Night, where they visit their top two choices. It’s a straightforward process, but the stakes are high as these young women aim to impress and secure a bid from their dream sorority.
What struck me, as someone who graduated two decades ago, was the stunning fashion choices these girls displayed. The dresses were unlike anything I had at that age, and the sheer number of outfits was astonishing. Each day, they proudly showcased their outfits, sharing details about where everything came from. “Hi, I’m Lily, and my dress is from a chic boutique, my shoes are vintage, and my jewelry is designer,” they’d say, showcasing their style with flair.
Kendra Scott jewelry, in particular, seemed to be a favorite among BAMA PNMs, with many receiving care packages filled with her pieces after featuring them in their videos. I found myself wishing I could join their glam squad, even though I usually stick to Target for my shopping needs.
Once you start watching, it’s hard to stop. You become invested in these young women and their quests for the perfect bids. I even found myself giving fashion advice through the screen, though they probably ignored my suggestions. I’d catch myself humming catchy tunes like, “Where them ZTAs at?” which had millions of views and were crafted specifically for rush.
The emotional highs and lows were palpable. Even when I knew I wouldn’t receive a bid or have a stylish roommate to help me prepare, I kept cheering them on. Despite the inevitable critiques—mocking accents and appearances—these girls have built a significant following. As my mother used to say, “If you have haters, you know you’ve made it.”
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the majority of the participants in these TikTok videos are white women from affluent backgrounds, and the sororities at the University of Alabama only became integrated in 2013. This aspect of the story is crucial, and voices like Marissa Lee’s highlight the ongoing changes towards inclusivity in these organizations.
As I wrap up this post, I’m inspired to gather friends for our own version of rush—though my sponsorships might lean more towards brands that cater to parents than chic boutiques.
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In summary, #BamaRush has become an unmissable TikTok trend that captures the excitement, fashion, and emotional stakes of sorority recruitment. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a world that merges social media with traditional college experiences, highlighting both its glitz and the necessary conversations around diversity and inclusion.
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