It’s 2:15 PM, and I’m running late for my call with Caroline Odum, the President of Zeta Tau Alpha at Piedmont University. My 17-month-old is resisting nap time, putting me behind schedule. Caroline kindly accepts my apology as we dive into our conversation. I can sense her warmth through the phone, and I picture her in stylish clothes with perfectly styled hair. But I catch myself, remembering how society often boxes young women into stereotypes.
Growing up, I noticed a certain type of woman was idealized—always polished and “not like other girls.” This narrative often belittled those like Caroline, turning their ambitions into jokes about marrying rich men and throwing lavish parties. It’s a bias influenced by my upbringing, but as we settle into our chat, I push aside those thoughts. Caroline’s charm shines through her words.
I’m talking to her to learn more about Greek life at Piedmont University. This is the first article in a series exploring this topic.
First, we discuss the decline of campus life. It’s 2025, and many universities are struggling to engage students. The rise of online classes, financial challenges forcing students to live off-campus, and the need for part-time jobs have all contributed to a lack of involvement in campus activities.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, in 2017, a significant percentage of full-time and part-time students had jobs while studying, limiting their time for extracurricular activities. The aftermath of the pandemic has further altered college life. Many schools are finding it tricky to bring back the lively social scenes that once defined campus life. Student organizations are struggling to recruit members, and many events that used to be packed now face sparse crowds.
When I attended the University of North Georgia in 2016, the atmosphere buzzed with energy and political debates. Now, it feels like students are hiding behind screens, opting for anonymity on social media rather than engaging in real-life discussions. Many students, unsure of how to navigate a complex world, choose to disconnect rather than connect.
Even back in 2016, I noticed campus life shifting from vibrant to eerily quiet. Today, the campus feels less like a community and more like a lonely street corner. Yet, amidst the decline, Zeta Tau Alpha offers a glimmer of hope.
The Lambda Rho Chapter at Piedmont University shows how sororities can foster genuine connections. With a welcoming rush policy, anyone aligned with their values can join. Caroline, who initially didn’t think she’d join Greek life, discovered a community while attending a recruitment event. Her journey took her from member to sisterhood chair and finally to president.
“I wanted to make sure new members had a great experience,” she shares. The Lambda Rho chapter is small, but Caroline describes it as “tiny but mighty.” They focus on building close relationships. Traditions like the Bigs and Littles mentoring system create deep bonds among members. After big events, they gather for chips and dip at a local restaurant, keeping that connection strong.
Greek life at Piedmont plays a vital role in maintaining campus energy. Despite the broader decline in campus engagement, organizations like Zeta Tau Alpha offer students a way to form valuable connections. Their philanthropy work, especially around breast cancer awareness, provides fellow students with a sense of purpose through events like “Think Pink Week” and “Pink Out” basketball games.
There’s a misconception that sorority members are just “paying for friends.” Caroline explains that dues act more like contributions to shared experiences. “We really make friendships here. This isn’t forced,” she clarifies.
Being part of a sorority also nurtures leadership skills. Caroline, who studies elementary education, credits her roles in ZTA for teaching her important skills like conflict resolution and time management. “I used to be a people-pleaser, but leadership has helped me find my voice,” she says.
Planning events and working with a team helps many members develop skills that translate to their careers, from business to education and beyond.
As colleges navigate digital and in-person experiences, Greek life could lead the way in rebuilding community. The focus needs to be on intentionality—creating spaces where students genuinely feel seen and supported. In this age of technology, places like Zeta Tau Alpha remind us that valuable relationships still matter. For Caroline, her experience sums up in three words: “Authentic. Exciting. Sisterhood.”
As the nature of community evolves, the need for belonging remains constant. Building real connections is essential for well-being and campus vitality. Even though reaching out can feel daunting, forging these bonds is worthwhile. It’s through these connections that we find support and a sense of belonging.
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Campus Life at Piedmont University,Caroline Odum,Piedmont University,President of Piedmont University’s Zeta Tau Alpha,Sorority life,Zeta Tau Alpha
