Pi Phi Forever - US Expats in the UK

When I joined Pi Beta Phi (Pi Phi) as a freshman in the fall of 1997 at the University of California, Irvine, I was looking for a home away from home. Little did I know that I'd be doing the same search 12 years later. Except, this time, I'm on the other side of the world in London, United Kingdom!

With over 80 Pi Phi alumnae living in the United Kingdom and countless Pi Phi collegians studying abroad, having an established international network of sisters is priceless. Although we all joined Pi Phi for different reasons and may have had different experiences as collegians and alumnae, we all share a common passion - to connect with educated women to engage in friendship, social/service outlets, networking opportunities, and leadership development.

Living as an American expatriate in another nation, on another continent is challenging. When I found out that I had to move from sunny Southern California to unpredictable London, I was nervous to leave friends, family, colleagues, groups, work, and a region that I knew so well. The idea of establishing new roots was daunting. But, I recognized that I had some tools that I had hoped would come in handy in the future.

I recalled my dark blue new member manual from the fall of 1997 with the words "Pi Phi Forever." At the time, I didn't fully understand that that meant. I've repeated these words as well as "Pi Phi for life" many times during recruitment (formerly known as rush) to encourage women to join my chapter, and in retrospect, I was using those words as marketing tools. However, after graduating and becoming an alumna advising chapters on the US west coast, I started to understand the full meaning of "Pi Phi Forever" and "Pi Phi for life." Pi Phi is truly more than just four enhanced college years - it can enhance the rest of your adult life. And for me, it really has.

Although I've only been in London for a short time, I've already connected with many Pi Phis living in the UK. I've met some in person, talked to others on the phone, and exchanged countless emails. Alumnae have offered to help me as I transition into London life and are excited about re-energizing the Pi Phi London/UK Alumnae Pocket.

With this renewed energy and leadership support from outstanding UK alumnae like Kasey Lowe from Arkansas Alpha who is serving as the Vice President of Event Planning/Membership, we are about to embark on the Pi Phi Forever journey. If you are a Pi Phi alumna living in the UK or a Pi Phi collegian studying abroad and are interested in participating in our group's activities, please email mdrouse5.piphi@gmail.com. We are planning quarterly events that are focused on building connections, friendship, networking and service. We look forward to your involvement! Ring Ching!