New Member Experience

The Zeta Is Forever New Member Experience emphasizes the values of the Fraternity, found in our Creed. The weekly lessons are: Seek Greatness, Seek Understanding, Seek Purpose, Seek Sisterhood, and Seek the Noblest.

Prior to the weekly meeting, new members complete an online educational workshop regarding that week’s topic. These online workshops allow for fewer lectures and more discussion and engagement with other new members during meetings, building overall sisterhood and a connection to the Fraternity. The meetings include icebreakers, a review of the online module, interactive activities, and a personal reflection.

All first-year Zetas participate in the New Member Experience, Initiation, and two post-Initiation lessons (Seek Meaning and Seek Commitment) during the same semester as when they join the chapter.

A message from our VP2 Learning and Development, Zaida Buchan:

Hi everyone! I am so excited to welcome and guide our new members through such a special chapter in their lives at Zeta Tau Alpha. The New Member Experience is truly one of the most meaningful parts of our sisterhood because it is centered around building genuine friendships, learning our values, and creating memories that last far beyond college. Throughout the semester, our new members participate in five New Member Meetings where you’ll grow closer with your pledge class and sisters while learning about the history, values, and traditions that make ZTA so special.

One of the most exciting parts of the experience is the Big/Little process, where each new member is paired with an older sister who becomes a mentor, role model, and lifelong friend throughout your journey in ZTA. A favorite tradition during this process is ‘Zeta Christmas,’ where your Big creates a personalized gift basket filled with goodies, ZTA merch, and thoughtful surprises the day before reveal. After initiation, we celebrate with a New Member Retreat filled with bonding activities, laughter, and unforgettable memories as you officially begin your lifelong sisterhood in Zeta Tau Alpha. I cannot wait to help our new members feel supported, loved, and at home throughout every step of this experience!