Everything You Need to Know About Sorority Packets at the University of Alabama
- The Stables at Cypress Creek
- Aug 13
- 6 min read
Here at the Stables at Cypress Creek, wedding venue in Tuscaloosa Alabama we see an increase in wedding tours during the month of August as the recruitment process begins (also known as Bama Rush) for incoming freshmen that travel from all over the United States looking to join sororities at The University of Alabama. So, What exactly is a Sorority Packet? It's a well structured compilation of materials designed to introduce a prospective new member (PNM) to sorority alumni and the chapters they represent.
Whether you're a high school senior preparing to join a Sorority at the University of Alabama or a parent guiding your daughter through recruitment, understanding the details of sorority packets is essential. This blog covers everything you need to know about Bama Rush and Sorority Packets —from purpose and content to formatting, timelines, and best practices—so you can approach recruitment with perfectly laid out steps and the utmost confidence. Be sure to follow us on Tiktok
What Is a Sorority Packet?
A sorority packet is a professional portfolio sent by a PNM to alumnae of National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) sororities. These alumnae use the documents to write Letters of Recommendation—often referred to as recs—and sometimes Letters of Support, which are then submitted to the corresponding chapters at Alabama before recruitment begins.
At the University of Alabama, where Panhellenic recruitment is among the largest most driven, spirited, and competitive in the nation, these materials play a significant role in shaping a PNM’s early reputation with each sorority. While these documents are not officially required by the university or Panhellenic Council, sorority packets are considered highly beneficial—and in some cases, counted on during Bama Rush.
Why Sorority Packets are Important at Alabama
Each fall, thousands of PNMs enter the University of Alabama’s formal recruitment process, and each chapter faces the overwhelming task of reviewing hundreds—sometimes thousands—of potential candidates. Sorority packets allow PNMs to identify themselves well before recruitment begins.
These packets serve three core purposes:
Providing for the Recommendation Process
They provide alumnae with all the necessary information to write informed, personal, and persuasive recommendations.
Leaving a Professional Imprint
A well though out packet demonstrates that the PNM is serious, prepared, and understands the formality of the recruitment process.
Allowing Chapters to Pre-Screen Candidates
Some chapters begin the evaluation process on PNMs before formal recruitment even begins. Who doesn't want to take the time to curate a well laid out Sorority Packet to get on the radar early!
What to Include in Your Sorority Packet
There are various presentation styles but the overall content of a packet is generally standardized. The main point that you want to accentuate is to provide a comprehensive yet concise overview of who you are academically and personally.
1. Sorority Resume
Hands down this is the most important document in your packet. Take the time to professionally format this and include:
Full legal name and preferred name
Permanent address and contact information
High school name, graduation year, GPA (weighted and unweighted)
SAT/ACT scores (optional but encouraged if strong)
Intended college major
Honors and awards
Extracurricular activities and leadership roles
Community service and volunteer work
Work experience (if applicable)
Legacy information (sorority affiliation of relatives)
Don't stress out about thinking you have to have multiple pages! A single-page resume is ideal.
2. Pictures
Sorority packets should include 2–3 high-quality photographs:
A clear headshot (professional or well-lit casual) Cypress Creek Productions offers professional headshots located in Tuscaloosa Alabama
A full-body image (appropriate and polished)
An optional personality or lifestyle photo
These photos assist chapters in recognizing you during recruitment and give them a visual connection to your application. Keep is simple and remember that your photos should reflect your natural appearance and be free of heavy filters or distracting backgrounds.
3. Academic Transcript
An unofficial high school transcript is typically sufficient. Be sure your transcript includes:
GPA (cumulative and core, if applicable)
Class rank (if provided)
Course rigor (AP/IB, honors, etc.)
If you’ve taken dual enrollment or college credit courses, be sure to include those as well.
4. Cover Letter or PNM Introduction Letter
This concise, one-page letter is addressed to the alumna writing your recommendation. Include the following:
Show gratitude and love, be intentional about what it means to receive their time and support.
Introduce yourself and your interest in Greek life at the University of Alabama. How important is getting in this sorority?
Let them know how excited you are about joining a Sorority attending college, what it means to you, and if someone else in your family was in a sorority and how important it is to carry on the family tradition. .
5. Stamped, Pre-Addressed Envelopes (Optional)
Digital is the way to go, come on it's way easier and saves you time and money! Just make sure to obtain the sororities website and send in your recs digitally. Just make sure to confirm with the sorority their preference before sending. If you’re mailing your packets physically, include a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for each sorority’s recommendation chair or address provided by the alumna.
Consider These Options
Here are some tips for condensing your info. Some PNMs opt to include a Recruitment Information Sheet, a condensed version of the resume with key data points and a QR code(stand out and look professional by adding this QR Code) linking to an online portfolio or social media (if appropriate).
If you prepared a Digital Packet—a well-organized PDF version of all materials—you can easily email or share this packet via Google Drive or Dropbox.
Presentation & Design Tips
If you are going with a hard copy for your packet it should be clean, organized, and simplel. Aesthetic consistency is key: choose a color palette and font family, and stay with it throughout all materials.
Recommended Design Practices:
Use white or cream-colored card stock paper for printing
Keep colors soft and feminine, but not overly juvenile
Choose a structured folder or envelope to keep materials neat
Avoid overly decorative or distracting elements (glitter, stickers, etc.)
Professional design templates can be found on platforms like Canva, Etsy, or through boutique sorority preparation services.
So When and How Should you Send Sorority Packets
Timeline:
January–March: Begin creating your packet, collecting photos, and finalizing your resume
March–June: Reach out to alumnae and send packets
June–July: Confirm that all recommendation letters have been submitted
August: Recruitment begins (generally in early to mid-August)
A good rule of thumb is to send packets at least six to eight weeks before recruitment begins.
How to Find Alumnae:
You do not need to know alumnae personally to ask for a recommendation. Here are ways to connect with Alumnae:
Family, friends, and neighbors
Local alumnae Panhellenic associations
Social media (Facebook groups, community networks)
High school alumni or church contacts
Remember: Each recommendation must come from an alumna of that specific sorority, though she doesn’t have to be affiliated with the University of Alabama chapter.
So, Do I Even Need a Sorority Packet to Receive a Bid?
While the University of Alabama Panhellenic Association does not require recommendation letters or packets, many sororities prefer or expect them as part of their internal recruitment preparation. Why not take the time to be intentional and go all in for your bid? Don't put yourself at a disadvantage so early in the recruitment process by not submitting your packet!
If you are recently engaged and are looking to tie the knot or have your engagement photos taken you have come to the right place. Here at The Stables at Cypress Creek we know that the process of selecting a wedding venue is a crucial decision in planning your special day. Given the many factors to consider, it's vital to begin your search early and focus on what's most important to you. The ideal venue will not only accommodate your practical requirements but also embody your unique style and the dream you have for your wedding. If you are still looking for the perfect wedding venue contact us at The Stables at Cypress Creek in Tuscaloosa Alabama to schedule a tour.
Special thanks to all the amazing locally owned and operated wedding venues from across the country who continue to inspire and support us daily.
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