Bama Rush Coaches Share ‘Hard’ Truths of Surviving Sorority Rush Week, Say ‘It’s Emotional Bootcamp’ (Exclusive)

Bama Rush Coaches Share Insider Tips for Sorority Recruitment Week

With the upcoming college sorority recruitment season on the horizon, it’s time to prepare for the whirlwind known as Rush Week. To shed light on what it really takes to survive the intense days of sorority recruitment, two seasoned experts, Bill Alverson and Brandis Bradley, are offering a glimpse into their top tips for navigating the process.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Alverson and Bradley, who are featured in Lifetime’s new unscripted show ‘A Sorority Mom’s Guide to Rush!’, share their invaluable insights into the dos and don’ts of sorority recruitment. The show follows mother-daughter duos as they navigate the high-pressure world of securing a bid from their desired sorority.

Describing the process as “emotional boot camp” and “psychological warfare,” Bradley emphasises the need for mental and emotional preparation before diving into primary recruitment. The intensity of the process, especially at the University of Alabama, where social media has amplified the spotlight on sorority hopefuls, can be physically taxing, with ambulances often on standby due to the summer heat.

As millions of viewers tune in on TikTok for a glimpse into the ups and downs of recruitment, the reality of rejection becomes all too real for many potential new members. Bradley’s advice to prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions resonates with the importance of resilience in the face of disappointment. Understanding that rejection is part of life is key to navigating the sorority recruitment journey.

Alverson’s straightforward approach extends to the mothers of prospective sorority members, who can sometimes be overly invested in their daughter’s bid process. From extravagant spending on outfits to intrusive behaviour, some mothers walk a fine line between support and interference. Alverson’s advice to mothers? Sometimes, it’s necessary to take a step back and allow their daughters to navigate the process independently.

Focusing on helping the girls discover their true selves amidst the whirlwind of rush, Alverson encourages them to stay grounded in their values and aspirations. The goal is to find a sorority where they can truly belong and make a difference, rather than chasing perceived notions of prestige or status. Bradley echoes this sentiment, highlighting the diversity of backgrounds and identities present in the sorority recruitment process.

As ‘A Sorority Mom’s Guide to Rush!’ prepares to premiere, Alverson and Bradley’s insights offer a valuable preview of the challenges and triumphs that await sorority hopefuls and their families. By emphasising authenticity, resilience, and self-awareness, the coaches aim to guide participants towards a rewarding and fulfilling sorority experience.

The show premieres on August 11, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamics of sorority recruitment and the transformational journey that awaits both mothers and daughters. With their combined expertise and candid advice, Alverson and Bradley are set to empower sorority aspirants to navigate Rush Week with confidence and purpose.