When I first got to the University of Tampa, joining a fraternity was not very high up on my list of priorities. I anticipated that most of my time would be consumed by schoolwork and track, so I wouldn’t really have the energy or desire for an additional extracurricular activity. 

As time passed, however, I realized that college provided much more free time than I ever could have imagined. I started looking into different organizations such as political clubs, student government and community service opportunities, but nothing really clicked with me. I was looking for something more; something that would provide me with close-knit friendships and a way to be influential in the University of Tampa community. 

That was when I found out about a fraternity called Sigma Phi Epsilon. What drew my attention to SigEp at first was the Balanced Man Scholarship. Most scholarships are given to recognize one particular skill or talent a person may possess, such as academics, athletics or service. As an organization, SigEp emphasized the idea that people must be well-rounded in order to be successful in today’s society, and the gentlemen of Florida Zeta embody that every day. Each one of these brothers, in their own unique way, strives to be the best in whatever they choose to pursue. 

I instantly knew that this group would help me develop as an individual in each and every aspect of life. 

Soon after joining the chapter, I got word that I was chosen to be the recipient of the scholarship. It felt great to be recognized for my involvement around campus. Even though I don’t have a perfect 4.0 GPA or an all-American athletic track record, I was worthy of recognition simply because I am striving to live as a balanced man.

This story originally appeared in the Florida Zeta Chapter Newsletter. If your chapter has stories you’d like to share, email them to communications@sigep.net.