Sorority rush week is back on college campuses across the United States—and on TikTok. This online phenomenon known as "RushTok" offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the rush process at various colleges, generating billions of views and likes.
For many young women, engaging with this content is not just for entertainment but can inspire their own Greek Life aspirations. Kylan Darnell, known as the "queen of RushTok," has turned her experiences and videos on this platform not just from enjoyment but also as a means to fund her college education.
“I’m very grateful. I’m excited to graduate and not be in debt from student loans,” Darnell said, excitedly discussing how her TikTok influence has impacted her life.
Darnell's entertaining approach to sorority life caught viewers' attention and has created substantial engagement, with videos filled with vibrant themes, outfit reveals, and fun dance routines. Her success allows her to envision a future beyond social media, as she dreams of becoming a sports broadcaster.
The University of Alabama has become the focal point for "Bama Rush," drawing significant interest following the release of the HBO Max documentary, "Bama Rush." This documentary highlighted the selective recruitment process which can be quite dramatic, captivating audiences all over the country.
Users watching videos under the #RushTok tag range from enthusiastic potential recruits seeking inspiration to casual viewers drawn to the engaging content, much like reality television. Most RushTok videos are only seconds long, showcasing everything from stylish outfits to coordinated dance routines.
This year, several new trends have emerged—one particularly catching attention is the blue theme initiated by the University of Oklahoma’s Kappa Kappa Gamma chapter. This trend included creative and sometimes humorous outfits showcasing various shades of blue, prompting positive reactions from followers on TikTok.
Members of sororities begin with what they call "work week” prior to rush week, wherein they prepare for the upcoming recruitment activities. During this fun-filled prep time, houses often adopt playful themes to motivate the members.
For example, one of the most popular themes this season involved members dressing up as grandmothers, parading about with delight as they mimicked youthful energy. This clever humor showcased their personality and piqued viewers' interest.
Recently, Darnell highlighted the latest sorority anthem, “Great Day To Be A ZTA,” which was crafted by YOUNG036 for her chapter, Zeta Tau Alpha. This catchy tune, paired with synchronized dance moves, has quickly become viral, demonstrating the intersection of music and Greek life on social media.
But it's not just the fun and games; many aspiring recruits are spending staggering amounts on outfits, often reaching up to $10,000. One TikTok user, Destinee Moreh, has created her own brand analyzing and breaking down these costs, offering insights on the expenses involved with the recruitment process.
The extravagant fashion choices are complemented by impressive room decor shared by sorority members, featuring trendy tattoos, matching comforter sets, and luxurious furniture items, creating Instagram-ready living spaces. Darnell's videos give viewers glimpses of these carefully curated environments, showcasing the lifestyle of today's sorority members.
Some recruits don’t just rely on their social media skills; they also hire professional recruitment consultants to navigate the competitive process of joining these exclusive communities. "Greek life provides...an invaluable set of transferable skills," explained Stacia Damon, CEO of Hiking in Heels.
The influx of attention surrounding RushTok not only sparks excitement but also brings intense scrutiny. Despite the recognition and support many creators well-deserve, there remains judgment and criticism directed at the young participants and their fashion choices.
Conscious of the pressure adolescents face, Darnell encourages kindness and respect within the online community. She stresses the importance of recognizing the vulnerability of these young women, many of whom are still figuring out their identities.
"Just be positive," Darnell noted. "These girls are trying to make meaningful connections, and your comments can have lasting effects on their experiences." This appeal for compassion adds to the overall narrative of RushTok, highlighting the real emotions and experiences behind the viral videos.
