By: Catherine Kerwin
Sigma, University of Iowa
Region 4 Traveling Consultant
During my first two months as a traveling consultant, I’ve worked with chapters across the country, from Seattle to Nashville. One of my favorite parts of being a traveling consultant is exploring the different coffee shops on the campuses I visit. You may be surprised to learn that the best coffee I’ve had so far during my travels wasn’t in Seattle, but in Manhattan, Kansas. (Shout out to Arrow Coffee Co.!) For an avid coffee drinker such as myself, having good coffee is a must, especially when frequently changing time zones.
From countless cups of coffee to waiting in seemingly endless lines at airport security and navigating my way through new parts of the country, this job keeps me on my toes! Not only am I becoming better at packing, but I’m also learning how to work in new environments. My collegiate experience as an Alpha Chi Omega taught me a lot, but as a consultant I’m continuing to better myself as a leader. Contrary to what I believed as a freshman, you don’t have all the answers once you graduate from college. I’m still growing into the woman I want to be, and once again, Alpha Chi is helping me grow.
As a collegian, I went through recruitment without the faintest idea of how joining a sorority could shape me as an adult. While a part of the Sigma chapter at the University of Iowa, I was an involved member who loved participating in homecoming, Greek week and attending other social events with my sisters. I was the chapter’s historian for one semester, and I also served as a class representative on CRSB. However, I shied away from running for an executive officer position, and I wish someone would have encouraged me to pursue a role on the executive board. Nonetheless, I am now incredibly blessed to help collegiate women realize their leadership potential as I continue to expand my own horizons.
Getting to know the collegiate women at different chapters has shown me just how far the Alpha Chi sisterhood extends across the country. It makes every place I visit feel like home. I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to do after I’m finished working for Alpha Chi, and being able to travel and explore new places allows me to get a better idea of where I would like to go. Wherever I end up next, I know I’ll be able to reach out to sisters in the surrounding area for support. I’m thankful for the leadership experiences and friendships I’ve gained from being a consultant because I know they will set me up for success in the future.