Dharyan Robinson, 10th grade at NFA West introduced Gianni Perez, NFA Alumnus and Senior Class President, class of 2010 before spoke with NFA West students about college life, more specifically Greek life on college campuses. Mr. Perez attended Morgan State University in Baltimore. He began his presentation with a few videos depicted Greek Life on college campuses.

He discussed the connections you make as part of Greek Life and how the brotherhood and sisterhood deeply connects you to people you may or may not know. “I know that I've gotten jobs because of the fraternity name and experience that I have on my resume. I also met someone at my college – all the way in Baltimore who came into my fraternity house who also happened to go to NFA. Once I found that out, it was like we were even more connected and that just means something.”

Mr. Perez noted that many colleges have rules and guidelines for Greek Life. GPA requirements, monetary costs, and grade level to pledge were all discussed.

Mr. Perez also warned of trouble that some organizations can bring. “Do your research and find out the history of the organizations - especially when it comes to hazing. Hazing is illegal and students are liable for what they do to other students, so know that history so you do put yourself in a position to be hazed or a position to hurt other people.”

When doing research, he also urged students to reflect what they bring to the table – similar to how they would reflect and prepare for a job interview.

Ultimately, fraternities and sororities are a big family.

A big part of fraternity life for Mr. Perez was developing dances or strolls to perform on campus. “We come up with strolls and dances for our individual groups - to build our identity and to form bonds among our group. It’s also really fun.”

Finally, Mr. Perez left the students with three pieces of advice:

1. There are tons of opportunities that are laying before you and you don't really understand it yet. Opportunities can be anything and are endless. One opportunity always leads to another. Look out for them – and take them.
2. You can be anything you want to be. I knew what my purpose was and what I wanted to be, so that helps me stay on track.
3. Stay focused. There are going to be girlfriends/boyfriends, parties, and tons of other stuff, but stay focused. You only get one college experience. When it's over, you don't want to have any regrets for the things you did - or the opportunities you didn't take advantage of.

“Nobody my fully understand what you're going through – but keep going. You're strong, you’re confident and you're from Newburgh and Newburgh breads the best.”

Headlines and some photos provided by Madison Jasso, 9th grade student at NFA West, as part of their shadowing/internship program.