Loyalty & Commitment to Leadership
Writer: Hannah C. / Editor: Ariana W. / Photographer: Elizabeth C.
As a self-described “do-er,” Remey H. truly does it all. From dedicated chapter leadership to intellectual engagement across campus, Zeta Tau Alpha’s (Zeta’s) newest Chapter President has paved a legacy defined by being rather than seeming.
Growing up, Remey had a consistent interest in medicine. Given that both of her parents had careers in pharmaceutical sales, her childhood and adolescence was defined and shaped by the wonders of the medical field. As she considered her own career path, she never doubted her inclination towards medicine, or more specifically, nursing. “I’m drawn to nursing because there are so many career paths you can take: education, business administration, hands-on work, and more,” Remey shares. In addition to the diverse career opportunities one has with a nursing degree, Remey values the personal impact of a career in nursing. “I love that nursing is patient care intensive. You can see the direct impact of your hard work. When your patient becomes healthy again, you can celebrate with them as a part of that journey.”
Despite her lifelong passion for the medical field and knowledge that nursing school would be academically challenging, Remey chose to participate in Panhellenic Recruitment as a first-year college student. “In high school, I was involved in athletics, leadership, and academics. Coming into college, I knew I wanted to continue to develop each part of myself,” Remey explains. She felt that a Panhellenic sorority would be a unique opportunity to seek support and shared experiences through sisterhood. “I needed a group of people to push me,” she says.
Remey knew that a supportive group of women could provide her with the resources and encouragement necessary for success in a difficult field. Currently, three sisters in her member class are participating in the same nursing program, and her little/best friend hopes to receive acceptance into the same program in several months. Because nursing is a popular career for women, sorority membership was a prime opportunity to “relieve stress, get support, and connect with others” as a nursing student.
During a particularly difficult time in Remey’s academic career, she reflects on a moment shared at the ZTA chapter facility. “I remember sitting down for a meal with my big, and her words really stuck with me. She reminded me that everything happens for a reason, and I’m right where I’m supposed to be. Not only did that advice help me continue with my nursing program, but it inspired me to continue my pursuit of chapter leadership,” she reflects. “If something doesn’t work out, it just wasn’t meant for you.”
In addition to her academic achievement, Remey invests in intellectual development through leadership. Throughout her time in Zeta, Remey has held 13 chapter leadership positions, including Crown Crew, Recruitment Board Leader, Sunshine Chair, Academic Assistant, and more. She notes that committing to smaller positions as a newer member allowed her to find her leadership niche and channel her passion and dedication towards larger positions where she could make the greatest impact. Through the support of her fellow Executive Board members, she strives to positively influence her chapter. “We’re all working to better the chapter and support our members in the best ways that we can,” Remey explains. “I love chapter leadership, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without the rest of my Executive Board.”
While Remey remains dedicated to chapter leadership, she expands her impact to the Florida State campus at large. Last year, she was accepted to the University Ambassadors program. University Ambassadors assist new and prospective FSU families through guiding tours, answering questions, and providing a first impression of the Seminole spirit. “My campus tour made me fall in love with FSU, and I wanted to give that to another student,” Remey shares. Although she had to discontinue her tenure as a University Ambassador due to health problems, she loved and valued her time spent interacting with and impacting new students and families.
As a leader within her chapter and beyond, Remey encourages others to “engage with your community and push yourself out of your comfort zone.” Through taking chances and investing in a community, Remey has found countless opportunities to develop academically, engage with leadership, and connect with a sisterhood. She shares advice for a younger her: “If you find that any part of you needs a place to belong, there is somewhere on this campus for you. You just have to continue to apply yourself and put yourself out there. It’s not comfortable or easy, but you’ll be so thankful for your relationships made at Florida State.”