Recommendations & Legacies FAQ

A legacy is typically defined as a woman whose mother, sister, or grandmother is an alumna or active member of a sorority. Each sorority may have a slightly different definition and policy regarding legacies.
While being a legacy can be helpful to some chapters, it does not guarantee a bid. All potential new members (PNMs) are evaluated on their individual merits, and each chapter has the right to determine its own membership based on mutual selection.
Yes. You should indicate any legacy connections on your recruitment registration form. Additionally, you may want to notify the national sorority organization or the chapter on campus to ensure they are aware.
That’s okay! Many women successfully go through recruitment without recommendations for every chapter. Focus on the connections you can make and be yourself throughout the process.

A letter of recommendation is a formal introduction written by an alumna of a sorority to recommend a PNM to her sorority's chapter. It typically includes information about the PNM’s character, achievements, and qualifications.
No, they are not required to participate in recruitment. However, they are encouraged, as they help sororities get to know PNMs better before recruitment begins. Here at Auburn we like to say letters of recommendations are “Extra Credit”.
You can reach out to family friends, neighbors, teachers, or community members who are alumnae of Panhellenic sororities. You can also use alumnae networks or national sorority websites to request recommendations.
You should aim for one recommendation per sorority if possible. It’s not necessary to send multiple letters to the same chapter, although some PNMs do. Auburn Panhellenic does not accept recommendation letters; they must be sent directly to the individual sorority chapters.

Letters of Recommendations