#GammaIS Graduating

The Chi Chapter Founding Fathers: Then

Founding Fathers Say Good- Bye

                It’s hard to believe that less than four years ago starting a Gamma Iota Sigma chapter at Drake was only a thought in the minds of a few freshman.  After months of planning and convincing the Drake faculty that this would be a great opportunity for actuarial science students, we held our first recruitment.  We were nervous that not many students would be interested, but in the end we had no reason to be.  We could not have asked for a better Alpha class.  Without these committed members, Gamma would not have grown so quickly.  After hearing what everybody loved about Gamma at the first initiation, I became extremely passionate about the chapter.  It was the first time I realized that we were making an impact not only on people’s professional success, but on their time at Drake.  We were no longer just a group of students striving for the same career goals; we had become brothers.  

                I have seen so much growth not only in the chapter as a whole, but in each individual member, including myself.  Gamma has allowed me to grow professionally, learn about different cultures, create lasting friendships, and grow tremendously as a leader.  I would encourage every member to take advantage of the leadership opportunities that Gamma opens up for them.  Starting Gamma and being President has been the most rewarding aspect of my college experience.  Not every leader has to be outgoing and a great public speaker; I am extremely introverted and usually pretty quiet, but that didn’t make me a bad leader.  I think that every person has qualities that allow them to successfully lead others.  My final advice to members would be to step out of your comfort zone, because that is the best way to grow.  

                I hope that Gamma will continue to be a family and a place to grow for many more students in the future like it was for me.  Looking at our current members and the new executive council, I have no doubt that it will.  I think I speak for all of the founding fathers when I say that we could not be happier with what Gamma has become.  

With Gamma Love and Loyalty, 
Emily Kessler

The Chi Chapter Founding Fathers: Now about to Graduate! (Our writer, Emily is pictured third from left)