Volunteer Highlight: Emily Parker

Name: Emily Parker

Chapter: Zeta Gamma Chapter from West Chester University

Volunteer Position: Mentor and Alumna Ambassador

"Phi Sig has given me a lot, gave me connections and opportunities and I wanted to give back and be involved with this organization as I relied on them a lot during college."

How has Phi Sigma Sigma impacted you both as a collegian and an alumna?

My time with Phi Sigma Sigma in college was a time to shine and really find out who I was as an individual and that is clear to see now. This also presented me with the opportunity of sisterhood where I was able to make so many life long friends that I love. As an alumna, I always wanted to stay connected to my roots and help out in any way that I could. After graduating, I was a guest speaker at my chapters parents, alumnae and philanthropy extravaganza event where I spoke about life beyond college which was an amazing experience for me. I then signed up to be an alumna ambassador and connect with other girls who live in my area.

As of recently, due to the pandemic, I also volunteered to be a mentor for a current collegian who will be graduating soon and helping guide her through the next steps of graduation and preparing for the real world.

Why did you choose to volunteer and why do you continue to stay involved? I wanted to volunteer just to stay involved. Phi Sig has given me a lot, gave me connections and opportunities and I wanted to give back and be involved with this organization as I relied on them a lot during college.

What is your favorite memory as a Phi Sigma Sigma volunteer? My favorite memory as a Phi Sig volunteer has been my role as an alumna ambassador. Since I live in Baltimore, Maryland - our area is called the DMV. So across D.C., Maryland and Virginia I created a Facebook group where sisters living in this area could talk, make connections and just have fun.

What advice do you have for our seniors as they prepare to transition to alumna life? My advice for seniors who are about to graduate is that it is still important to enjoy in the little things and to really bask in your glory. I know the pandemic may have screwed up a lot of things but that doesn't make you any less worthy or your accomplishments any smaller. There will always be a time for celebrations, but for now, soak it all in and prepare - because you never know what life may throw at you next!