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5 Minutes with Ariana Balakrishnan, Columbia

5 Minutes with Ariana Balakrishnan, Columbia

Dec 16, 2024

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Meet Ariana Balakrishnan, a sophomore at Columbia University and Kappa Alpha Theta Sister!

Ariana is originally from Austin, TX, but it has always been her dream to go to college in New York City. So, when she first stepped onto Columbia's campus, she knew this was just the beginning of an incredible journey. Although she had her dream college figured out, Greek Life was another matter altogether.

“Growing up around UT and southern sorority culture, I wasn’t sure if Greek Life was for me.”

 

As she began settling into campus life, she formed connections with older girls in her classes and activities. They inspired her to give Greek Life and recruitment a chance. With an open mind and a readiness to step out of her comfort zone, she decided to rush during the Spring semester.
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Ariana approached rush with two things in mind: finding genuine connections and having meaningful conversations. When she spoke with the Theta sisters, she found just that! They hit it off immediately, and she knew she had found her new home.
Did you know? The Kappa Alpha Theta Kite is a visual representation of the invaluable ideals the Sorority was founded on. Each point of the kite represents one of the four: Intellectual Curiosity, Leadership Potential, Commitment to Serve, and Personal Excellence. 

 

Ariana's time in Theta has allowed her to form lifelong friendships and a support system that she can rely on. She couldn’t be more grateful for her new community and the safe space she has found on campus. Her advice to incoming students is to give new experiences a try (particularly when it comes to recruitment!) and always remember to stay authentic and keep an open mind—you never know what might surprise you!

Ariana proudly wears her Kappa Alpha Theta Kite Charm, a symbol of the supportive community she cherishes and the remarkable group of women she represents.

 

Keep up with Ariana's college journey on socials @arianabalakrishnan

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