Emery Lowden is a freshman at Florida State University, who became a brother in Alpha Kappa Psi this past fall. Currently an exploratory major, Emery Lowden has become very active since Fall 2017, being a part of an LLC and hall council, in addition to her commitment to AKPsi.

 

·      What made you decide to pledge Alpha Kappa Psi?

I knew I wanted to join a business fraternity before I entered college because I liked the balance between social events and professionalism. I wanted a motivated group of people who would help me grow and succeed. When I got to FSU I heard about AKPsi and was drawn by their reputation on campus and the people who were in it.

·      How has it been adjusting to new experiences in your first year of college, such as being in AKPsi?

It's been hard learning how to manage my time and balance my life but the people I've met and skills I've learned in AKPsi have helped me a lot.

·      What are some reasons you would suggest others join AKPsi?

I believe everyone needs to know how to be professional no matter their major or future career. It's important to learn how to present yourself, stick out in interviews, and make good impressions on everyone you meet. Not to mention you're making a network of lifelong friends who you can reach out to for a shoulder to cry on or help landing a job.


·      What makes a business frat different from a regular frat?

For starters, we're co-Ed and very diverse, something frats lack. This give the fraternity a whole new dynamic. We also focus on personal growth as a professional rather than partying.

·      How is AKPsi run? What are the leadership positions and how are decisions made?


There is an exec board of about 15 members. People vote them in based on their platforms and experiences. They all have different positions and responsibilities ranging from the president to risk management.


·      How has AKPsi affected your life socially?

I have made a lot of friends and connections. I've also improved on public speaking.

·      What has been your favorite part of being in AKPsi? Least favorite parts?

My favorite part has been meeting so many new people right off the bat coming into college. My least favorite part has been learning how to manage my time wisely.

·      How do you imagine being an AKPsi brother will impact your future?

I hope that my brothers can help me find and even attain internships and maybe even a jobs. I have also learned a lot of valuable skills which will help me when it comes to the interviewing process.


·      How would you say AKPsi is different from being in a sorority, seeing as it's a co-ed frat? What are your opinions on gender stereotypes that exist within Greek Life?


I think it's different in that there isn't competition amongst people based on looks. I know that a lot of sororities have unwritten rules of looking for girls who fit their status quo and overall "look". AKPsi is very diverse socioeconomically, racially, ethnically, and in terms of sexual orientation. I believe that there is a problem in Greek life with gender stereotypes for instance how frats host "mixers" and only invite one sorority and they give them free alcohol. It seems strange to me that they need to give them alcohol to hang out with them, not to mention that only one sorority is allowed to come. I also think it's sexist to let girls in for free to frat parties but not boys, clearly proving they are hosting the party just so the brothers can hook up with drunk girls. In AKPsi, people of all genders are considered equal and there are harsh rules and punishments against sexual harassment.

·      What would be your number one piece of advice to those interested in joining AKPsi in the future?


Come to all the rush events to meet the brothers. Think about why it's important to learn to be professional.

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Overall, I am satisfied with my interview. I wish Emery had given me more in depth responses, but I think she might have been in a bit of a rush. Additionally, it is possible that she did not have much experience, leading to her shorter answers. My professor did give me an email to contact a more experienced Alpha Kappa Psi alumni, but there was a bit of an issue. I emailed “lewiskrowl@gmail.com” accidentally, as opposed to “lewisrkowl@gmail.com”. I did not realize this until it was too late, and now it is too late for me to re-email them. Regardless, Emery’s interview is perfect on its own, so there is no absolute need to tack on an extra interview.

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