First Steps in Sisterhood as an ADPi
Freshman, Haley Kalinowski, AC ‘24 shares the impact ADPi had on her first semester on Rocky Top!
As a University of Tennessee freshman in ADPi AC ‘24, it is such a joy to look back at my first semester on campus and all the ups and downs that came along with it. I came to college all the way from Chicago, Illinois, feeling lonely and anxious about the journey ahead. My first week in Knoxville was a rush of excitement as I was welcomed into panhellenic sorority houses during recruitment. I met so many lovely, accomplished women during that time, and was given the opportunity to run home to Alpha Delta Pi on bid day.
With full confidence I am able to say that joining this sisterhood has changed my college life for the better. I was brought much closer to the girls I met during rounds, my suitemate Hampton, and people I had never met before who were entering into life as an ADPi. My semester was filled with many laughs, car rides, hometown visits, meals, date parties, and sleepovers shared with my sisters. I grew up my entire life having only a brother, so I have absolutely loved having girls that feel like family to share my time and closet with.
One of my favorite memories from this semester was getting to know my big, Laney. Ever since I first met Laney, I have been inspired by her kindness and generosity. She introduced herself to me on the bus on my way to the Mallard Ball and gave me her contact info after she found out I was a freshman, telling me to reach out if I ever needed anything. On the day of the reveal, I was paired together with my close friend Ava, who is now my twin. We put on our matching fish costumes and met up with our big! Since then, Ava and I have been able to hang out with Laney, catching up frequently and motivating each other through college life. Moments and connections like these would not be possible outside of Alpha Delta Pi, and I am so grateful for the experiences that come along with being a member like gaining mentors who are there to talk to about school, dorm life, or literally anything else that is on my mind.
My fall semester of the 2024-2025 school year was jam packed with many firsts, and I can’t wait to get back to Rocky Top and create new memories with my sisters! With the stressors of classes and a new environment, ADPi has been a constant area of happiness and peace in my life. Semester one has been a blast, but I look forward to the events, service opportunities, and friendships that the spring semester holds!
With love,
Haley Kalinowski, AC ‘24