In our latest Q&A, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mia Bittner, a dedicated member of the Chi Omega fraternity and a valuable contributor to our Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL) community. As Mia wears multiple hats – from sorority president to FSL Office Assistant – her insights provide a unique perspective on the transformative power of Fraternity and Sorority life at the University of Michigan.
Q: Mia, can you share your journey in Chi Omega and your motivation for taking on leadership roles?
A: My journey with Chi Omega began during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic when I started college out-of-state. The desire to enhance my experience and contribute to a supportive community motivated me to take on leadership roles, first as President and later as Director of Programming. The personal growth in leadership and teamwork has been immensely rewarding.
Q: What inspired you to join the FSL Office as a student worker, and what have you gained from this experience?
A: Initially, the convenience of Chi Omega and the FSL Building being neighbors sparked my interest in the student worker position. However, this role has evolved into a fantastic opportunity to interact with professional staff, appreciate their dedication, and broaden my understanding of other councils beyond Panhellenic. It's been a valuable learning experience.
Q: Mia, have you received mentorship or guidance from alumni or other FSL stakeholders, and how has it impacted your journey?
A: I've been fortunate to receive guidance from several alumni advisors within Chi Omega, as well as from the FSL professional staff. Their mentorship has been instrumental in navigating personal and leadership challenges. The support from FSL stakeholders, including alumni, has shaped my journey and the journeys of many students positively.
Q: As you graduate with dual degrees in Public Health Sciences and Environmental Studies, how has your FSL experience influenced your future aspirations?
A: Working in the FSL Office has guided me towards seeking collaborative and impactful work in the public sector, aligning with my academic background. The experience has been influential in shaping my career goals and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of people-centric work that makes a difference.
Q: What message would you convey to those considering supporting FSL and its stakeholders?
A: I'm deeply grateful for the support provided by FSL stakeholders. The experiences and friendships facilitated by their support have been phenomenal. Your contribution can have a significant positive impact on students' lives, fostering a community that shapes and enriches the college experience.
Q: Looking ahead, Mia, how do you envision leveraging your sorority experiences as an alumna, and what advice would you offer to future alumni considering involvement in FSL?
A: My sorority experience has significantly bolstered my leadership and communication skills. In the future, I plan to become an advisor, providing mentorship to the next generation of Chi Omegas. To future alumni, I'd say your involvement can be transformative, fostering growth and creating a positive impact that resonates beyond college.
In closing, Mia Bittner's journey exemplifies the profound impact of fraternity and sorority life at the University of Michigan. Her leadership, dedication, and aspirations reflect the values we hold dear in our FSL community.
Go Blue!