UMKC fraternity and sorority members gathered Monday for Scholarship Night to study, hang out and gain career insight. Delta Zeta alumna and career expert Jeina Kummer helped students uncover “transferable skills” hidden in their Greek life experiences.
Kummer emphasized that Greek organizations were founded as academic social societies—a purpose that still holds true for the UMKC Greek community. Many members say their membership helps them succeed academically.
Each chapter requires members to maintain a minimum GPA—often 2.5—to maintain membership or hold leadership roles. These expectations, combined with social support, motivate students to work harder.
Sydney Pederson, vice president of finance for Delta Zeta, said that study nights with her sisters keep her motivated. Other members echoed the value of peer support and accountability.
“A lot of us will go together and we’ll sit in a study room and either keep each other accountable or have fun while studying,” said Chi Omega sophomore Cayloma Sehnert.
Aside from the fun memories, Greek members often walk away with ready-made experiences that are perfect for job interviews. In behavioral-based interviews especially, employers are looking for stories that show how real situations were handled. Planning recruitment events, Bid Day, or philanthropy efforts gives members a chance to highlight skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.
“There’s no secret—we love people, but not all the time. So there’s gonna be conflict resolution,” said Kummer. “There’s gonna be a time where it was raining during your guys’ Bid Day or whatever. What’d you do?”
Chi Omega health sciences major Brecklyn Matthews said her sorority experience has highlighted an important transferable skill.
“I think Chi Omega does take up a lot of my time during the day. It’s kind of hard to balance school, social life and then the sorority. Being able to show that I know how to manage my time is important,” said Matthews.
As students look ahead to life after graduation, their time in Greek life isn’t just about social bonding—it’s an opportunity to use their experience in any job interview.
UMKC’s “Greek Week: As Seen on Reality TV” kicked off Sunday, April 6. The week-long competition consisted of 3 teams—a mix of members from all Greek chapters. While the event promotes Greek-wide unity, it also reminds students that academics come first.
