Home Sweet Homecoming
Writer: Mia L. / Editor: Savannah T.
Homecoming has been one of Florida State University’s most treasured traditions since its beginnings in 1948. What started out as a few simple events to encourage university pride has expanded into a week of incredible and intricate activities where students get to learn more about FSU and its traditions, make unforgettable memories with other students, and bleed garnet and gold. The Panhellenic community is incredibly involved in Florida State’s Homecoming, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, several incredible chapter women have taken on leadership roles that further connect their chapters with Homecoming.
Though chapter women all have different reasons for deciding to lead their chapter’s Homecoming involvement, school pride seemed to be at the center of most of their whys. (Recruitment Counselor) of Delta Gamma decided to get involved in her chapter’s Homecoming because of how much she enjoys it as an FSU student. “I wanted to be a part of DG’s Homecoming because I have so much fun every year when Homecoming comes around,” she says, “ It is such a fun time for the school to come together and for everyone to meet new people in different organizations and clubs.”
Several chapter women also expressed excitement about getting involved with FSUs Homecoming after participating in similar events in high school. “I previously was on the Homecoming committee of my high school, so when I heard Homecoming was still happening, I thought it would be a great way for me to get involved more within my chapter and FSU,” says Giselle J., a member of Alpha Phi.
Jordan A., a sister in Kappa Kappa Gamma was also very involved in her high school years and wanted to continue this into her time at FSU. “I am super passionate about motivating others to have school spirit and pride, and I believe participating as a delegate for my chapter in this year’s Homecoming is one of the best ways to continue this passion.”
Many students believed would not be possible this year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic causing widespread event cancellations, but due to the hard work and creativity of the FSU Homecoming team, Homecoming will still be occurring and these chapter women were thrilled at the opportunity to get involved despite the circumstances. Though it is incredibly intimidating to take on the role of coordinating a chapter’s Homecoming involvement, these women have been able to move forward with confidence that their chapter and the FSU Homecoming team will be able to support them throughout any and all challenges they will face. Ally M. of Alpha Gamma Delta has been able to learn and gain support from older chapter women throughout this process. “Since I am I, freshman, I haven't experienced an FSU Homecoming before,” says Ally. “Thankfully, the women in my chapter have been so supportive by helping me coordinate things and explaining the differences between an in-person Homecoming and this year.”
Jordyn A. of Kappa Kappa Gamma also commented on the impact her sisters’ enthusiasm has on her work, “While announcing the plans we have thus far to our chapter, many members were beyond excited and supportive!” She says, “Their reactions made all of our hard work worth it!”
Homecoming not only allows for women to become more involved in their chapter but also to form connections with FSU students from all corners of campus. “The best part of this whole experience so far has been having the opportunity to meet so many new people in the FSU community and having the opportunity to connect and work closely with them.” Says Jessica H., a member of Pi Beta Phi.
Miranda H. of Delta Zeta also expressed similar sentiments. “This experience has been a lot of fun for me because my sorority is paired with 3 other organizations on this campus. We are all very different, but have the same school spirit and love for this school,” she says, “It has been awesome working with them and getting to know them because I would have never had this opportunity if I was not involved in Homecoming.”
These women have truly stepped up to the challenge of continuing Panhellenic participation in Florida State’s Homecoming even during these unforeseen circumstances. Because of this, many students see Homecoming in a way they never have before.
“With all the adjustments everyone has had to make due to the coronavirus, I see Homecoming as a way to take a break and recognize all that we have been through as a campus,” says Ally M.
Giselle J. also commented on how unifying Homecoming can be during this pandemic, stating, “Homecoming is a time for all the organizations and students to come together and really honor something we all have in common.”
Mackenzie T. of Phi Mu stated that for her, “FSU Homecoming makes me take a step back and just look at how amazing this school really is.”
Even though Homecoming may look a little different for Florida State this year, these Panhellenic women have been able to persevere and help in making Homecoming the best experience possible for their chapters and the women in them. The support of their chapters and other FSU students involved in homecoming have aided them in their roles, and their passion for school spirit and student engagement have driven them forward. Despite the challenges this year has brought upon the University, these incredible Panhellenic women involved in Homecoming have truly remained unconquered.