Why I Went Greek: Candy Kim From Kappa Alpha Theta

This month is known as the month of sorority recruitment for tons of colleges and universities nationwide. Therefore, throughout the next few weeks, we would like to spotlight alumnae sorority women who went Greek and are thankful for going that route. These women will be from our Alma Mater, Arizona State University spotlighting various sororities from Kappa Alpha Theta to Delta Sigma Theta. We want to hear your stories and why being in a sorority has impacted your life in a positive way. Send your submissions and high resolution pictures of yourself and your chapter to secret@thesororitysecrets.com.

First up this week: Candace (Candy) Kim

School: Arizona State University

Sorority: Kappa Alpha Theta - Delta Epsilon Chapter

Year You Pledged: Freshman

Year Initiated: Fall 2007

What did you hear about sororities before you went through recruitment?
Prior to going through recruitment, I was kind of a mixed bag in regards to my opinions about sororities. I had a friend with two older sisters who were both in sororities, and they always made it sound like so much fun. Then I read the book Pledged--it kind of freaked me out, but because I had heard so many of the upsides from close friends, I was able to step back and realize that a lot of what the media portrayed when it came to sorority life is a really an extreme example of what actually goes on.

How much of it was true?

From the book? Not much. I think ASU is a school that does a great job when it comes to having a responsible Greek Life system and providing the fraternities and sororities with the support they need. You hear about these horrible things happening at other schools, but I can say with total confidence that I never encountered anything close to that during my time in a sorority!

What encouraged you to go through recruitment? 

I went out-of-state for school and only had one friend I knew at ASU. I had plans to go out-of-state all through high school, and going through recruitment to meet new people was just another part of the plan!

Do you remember what you wore on Day 1 of recruitment? 

Ha, totally! I have a weirdly sharp memory. I wore a lime green tank top, tan shorts and gold Steve Madden sandals. Chic.

Who was the first person you fell in love with in your house? 

Probably my Rho Chi! I did some snooping and figured out she was a Theta (I know, you’re totally not supposed to do that), and from that moment I knew I wanted to be a Theta as well.

Favorite sorority moment? 

When I was a sophomore and living in the house. One night we were all majorly bored, just sitting around the chapter room when someone came up with the genius idea of heading over to the fraternity houses to steal composites. It was really late, and we were able to sneak into about 4 different houses and raid their composite walls. When we got them back to Theta, we didn’t even have anywhere to put them, there were that many.

If you could go back in time, what would you want to relive in your sorority? 

Probably that night. I did it with my very closest friends in the house and we’re all still in touch. Either that or Barn Dance. Barn Dance was always so fun.

Any advice for anyone going through recruitment?

Don’t take it too seriously! You want to find a house full of girls who like you for you, not for who they think you are.

We wish you all the best of luck as you embark on recruitment. Check back for more interviews on fellow sorority alumnae!

How You Can Use Your Primer To the Fullest

Ok, so we have always had a hunch that we might not be using our primer correctly. Either that, or we are just not using it to the best of its abilities. Therefore, we decided to connect with Makeup Artist and former TSS Senior Assistant, Mackenzie Brown, and former Dolled Up Contributor, Becca Ashmon to help us understand how to best use primer. Check out their explanations below and be sure to shop the products they recommend.

Mackenzie Brown (Kappa Alpha Theta, IG: @kenziemacbrown)
Site: www.youtube.com/kenziemacbrown

[Using your primer to the fullest] depends on the type of primer because they have different formulations. There is one from Hourglass that will help prevent oil buildup and I recommend that one to people who get oily in their T-zone because it will prevent their makeup from breaking up. If you mix that specific one with liquid foundation it makes your foundation waterproof. Some primers, like Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer when mixed with eyeshadow can help you use the eyeshadow as an eyeliner and it helps it stay longer. Some primers like the Porefessional are good if you have uneven skin texture because it evens it out. And Smashbox makes like 10 different primers for every sort of skin type and purpose. Also, if you put primer in your brows it makes it easier to use brow products because they won't budge and they'll be more pigmented.

Becca Ashmon (Tri Delta, IG: @beccaashmon)
Site: www.aprettyhotmess.com

Honestly, every face needs a good foundation and what makes a solid foundation you ask? Primer! Just like you prime a wall before you paint it, your face should be no different. Aside from giving your makeup a foundation to hold onto, primer can do a number of other things, from making pores appear smaller and reducing redness to helping reduce dark spots over time. So here is a list of some of my favorite primers and what it is they do!

1. Hourglass- Veil Mineral Primer 

Hands down my favorite primer of ALL time ! It is Jesus in a bottle (it saves) and goes on the face of EVERY bride I touch ! Hourglass is suitable for ALL skin types but if you are an oily girl like me then meet your new best friend. Veil is a mineral primer with an SPF of 15. Veil not only helps smooth and keep oils at bay, but it's also water resistant in case you happen to be a cry baby and tear easily at weddings and such (seriously I have cried through this stuff like ugly Kim Kardashian cried and managed to stay Beyoncé status...FLAWLESS). Bonus: It keeps makeup on my face for 12+ hours which is practically a miracle on this face !

2. Benefit- The POREfessional 

Aside from perhaps being one of the smoothest things to ever grace your face, Benefits POREfessional helps to minimize pores while also providing a surface as smooth as a baby's bottom.

3. Laura Mercier- Hydrating Primer 

If you're a girl with dry skin this primer is the one for you. All the benefits of primer plus hydration to keep you looking fresh.

4. Smashbox- Photo Finish Dark Spot Correcting Primer 

This primer does double duty as a makeup and skincare product and helps reduce the appearance of dark spots while also helping your makeup stay on and flawless .

How do you use your primer to the fullest? Share you primer tips with us in the comments below!

9 Halloween Makeup Looks

More and more each year we see some super creative Halloween looks done purely with makeup. There is something really fun about transforming your face and body into a work of art. Kappa Alpha Theta and Makeup Artist, Mackenzie Brown is the guru of fun Halloween makeup looks so we asked her to share some of her favorites. Be sure to follow Mackenzie's YouTube makeup account for even more every day makeup looks!

1. Cheshire Kitten
-What you need:

· White, pink and purple face paint, pink and purple eye shadow, white eye liner and false lashes for added dramatic effect!

2. Doe, a Deer, a Female Deer
-What you need:

· White eyeliner, bronzer (or contouring powder), brown eye shadow, black liner, brown/taupe face paint for the lips

3. Teenage Mutant Ninja Babe
-What you need:

· Green and blue face paint, green and blue eye shadow (for contouring/highlighting to give the look more dimension) and glitter!

4. Cute Scarecrow
-What you need:

· Pink lipstick, pink blush, orange eye shadow or eyeliner and black/brown eyeliner!

5. Pixelated Pixie
-What you need:

· Black face paint, White face paint and lots of time and patience!

6. Jungle Cat
-What you need:

· Black eyeliner, brown eye shadow, gold eye shadow, black lipstick

7. Comic Book Heroine
-What you need:

· Black eyeliner, bright lipstick, white eyeliner, false lashes for an added dramatic effect!

8. Masquerade Ball
-What you need:

· Black eyeliner or face paint, glitter and patience!


9. Porcelain Doll Face
-What you need:

· White face paint, red lipstick, purple and red glitter, purple eye shadow, black eyeliner, pink blush and brown face paint/brow gel


*For a lot of these looks Mackenzie used the Make Up For Ever flash palette instead of face paint, but you could also recreate the looks using the NYX jumbo crayons and they’re more affordable for college students!

Sororities Best Dance Crew

Greek Week and philanthropies are so much fun and we really enjoyed participating in them when we were active sorority members. One of our most favorite competitions is when a dance off is involved. In lieu of Greek Week for many of you girls out there, we decided to compile a list of some of our favorite sorority dance performances. Check them out below! Also, if you know of any cool sorority dance performances, leave the link to them in a comment below.

ZTA at SDT Greek Grind 2013

Chapman Delta Gamma Skit 2014 (skip to 1:50)

DST Atlanta Greek Picnic Step Show

Kappa Alpha Theta Skit 2014

BONUS! Catch Co Founders Karen & Sakura in their dance at ASU

Fashion Spotlight: Casey Shteamer from Imperfect Wonder



Pictured: Black Heels, Leggings, Jacket, White Tee, Black Bag.

 Photos: Imperfect Wonder

"Fashion blogs are something I didn't really discover until two years ago. Blogs are wonderful because the inspiration is never ending. The more time I spent on other people's blogs, the more I wanted to have my own."  -Casey, Imperfect Wonder

1. What are your favorite places to shop?  Any places where you find great secret steals?

"I LOVE Stone Cold Fox.  I would live in their designs if I could.  But until I have that kind of bank account, I generally shop at Urban Outfitters, American Apparel, and Zara.  Urban Outfitters has great sales, so that is usually where I snag a deal."

2. If you could have anyone's closet, who's would it be?

"Elin Kling - I die over her."

3. Where do you look for fashion inspiration?

"Other blogs.  I feel like magazines aren't the best sources of inspiration anymore.  They seem so limited.  Also, other countries and cultures."

4. It's a Saturday night out on the town.  What are you wearing?

"Lately, my new sky high Alexander Wang black boots, black leggings, and an oversized knit sweater."

5. We love your ability to mix & match, especially with statement pieces and bold patterns.  What are your rules of thumb to transform these pieces into a fabulous outfit?

"For me, actually trying pieces on together is how I tell if I think they work.  Sometimes, I have an idea, but when I try it on it just looks awkward.  I'll pick a loud patterned piece that I want to wear, and then try everything in my closet to see what works best!  My room looks like a tornado came through afterward, but I get lots of new ideas.  It's also a good way to revive things you have pushed to the back of your closet for a while."

6. Favorite beauty products that you can't live without?

"Argan oil and raw honey.  I use raw honey as a face wash.  It is so gentle on the skin and it's completely natural which I love. Then Argan oil as a moisturizer for my face and hair.  I try to go all natural when I can."

7. What sorority were you in & what was your favorite part about being in a sorority?

"I was a Kappa Alpha Theta at Arizona State University.  I loved it!  My favorite part was definitely the community it created.  Going to such a large school, it was nice to have a smaller sub sect of the student body to be a part of.  It made it more manageable." 

8. What did sorority life teach you that you applied in the real world?

"You get out as much as you put in.  Sometimes, I wish I had put more into sorority life, as it really is something that the more effort you put in, the more rewarding the experience is.  Life is just the same."

Thank you again, Casey!  Be sure to check out Imperfect Wonder for more style inspiration.

Our Favorite Recruitment Videos

We're feeling totally inspired by all of the creative recruitment videos out there.  Some are sentimental, a lot of them are hilarious, and others just flat out make us want to dance!  All in all, these videos are a celebration of the sisterhood that we love so dearly.  It's clear that chapters all across the country have a lot of talent when it comes to putting together clever videos.  Plus, the music selection is pretty amazing too!

We browsed through YouTube and hand picked some of our all-time favorite Go Greek videos around.  Feast your eyes... these are a must watch!  In no particular order, here we go:

1. Chi Omega, University of South Carolina
To start, we love all of the sisterhood going on in this video!  The laughs, the smiles, and beautiful pictures capture the spirit of this chapter.  What really makes this video special is the heartfelt interviews sprinkled throughout, describing various chapter members' personal experiences in Chi Omega.  And just wait until you see all of the positive energy in the last minute of the video... we're blown away!

2. Kappa Kappa Gamma, Baylor University
This one has been out since 2011... but we still can't get enough!  These girls can dance, rhyme, and bust a move.  Honestly, how brilliant are these lyrics?!  This song is so catchy, we're probably going to be singing it all day long.

3. Kappa Alpha Theta, Indiana University
Just the first few seconds in, we were sold... their house mom might be the most adorable person ever.  We love the originality of this song!  Plus, the shots of everyone letting loose and letting their personalities shine can't be beat.  Totally an authentic-feeling peek into the lives of these fun ladies!

4. Alpha Phi, University of Missouri
The intro to this video is all about the candids; the singing & dancing in the bathroom is totally something we would do!  About halfway in, we love the change in tone, when the ladies describe "what Alpha Phi is."  A safe haven, living with my best friends, and future bridesmaids... many of the things that we cherish as Greeks!

5. Delta Gamma, Florida State University
This video. WOW.  We laughed, we cried, we got goosebumps.  And when we say we cried, we mean it... TSS Co-Founder Ali definitely shed some tears when the girls ran to each other after receiving their bids.  The spirit of bid day, captured on film!

And there you have it, some of our favorite Recruitment videos of all time!  No matter what the letter, we truly are all Greek together.  Does your chapter have an awesome recruitment video that we need to see?  Share it with us below, we would love to watch!

Meet Kirbie Johnson from POPSUGAR Beauty

{Instagram: Kirbie & Zooey Deschanel}

If you don't know who Kirbie Johnson is, we guarantee that after this interview, you will want to know her! Kirbie is the host and producer for POPSUGAR's beauty channel...but we'll let her share more about that later. We absolutely love seeing people in the Greek community do big things so we wanted to do a "Sisters Succeeding" post to inspire you to pursue your dreams and passions. Kirbie is a Kappa Alpha Theta alumnae from Texas Christian University who has gained a lot of success post grad. The Sorority Secrets had a chance to sit and interview this Texas beauty to find out a little bit more about her road to success with POPSUGAR so read our Q&A sesh with her below.

Make sure to also visit POPSUGAR and check out their beauty channel for great beauty tips and to see Kirbie in action!


Thanks Kirbie! xo

1. Tell us about POPSUGAR! 

POPSUGAR is a go-to hub for women. We feature celebrity news and entertainment, as well as lifestyle channels like beauty, fashion, fitness and food. Basically, it's one place to get your celebrity news craving, shopping and lifestyle necessities, all in one stop. I am the host and producer for our beauty channel, and basically I get to test beauty products and give tutorials for a living. It's funny because people are sometimes like, "What do you do exactly?" It's a little bit of everything. But primarily, I research, write, host and produce our beauty videos, then post to the site and make sure they get as much online promo as possible. It's fulfilling working for a company with a celebrity/entertainment core, because I'm really passionate about that as well. http://bellasugar.com

2. What inspired you to pursue Hosting & Producing?

When I was little, I wanted to be Julia Roberts — I loved to act! But as I got older, I was really inspired... no shame... by Oprah. I loved how she reported on important issues, but also did good for other people. Plus, I loved her interview style. So I went to college, got my degree in advertising and public relations, then moved to LA about 10 days after I got my diploma. I wasn't actively pursuing producing gigs, but it was a part of the job at POPSUGAR, and I'm better for taking it on. 

3. When you're not hosting & producing, what do you like to do?

People hate me when I say this, but I enjoy working out. I love Zumba, step class, cycling. I think I like it mostly because I get to listen to my music and zone out, day dream. I also am a hardcore music and social media junkie, so if I'm not at a concert, I'm totally browsing the web. One of my favorite things is being on Twitter during award shows or sporting events. Or during The Bachelorette. And, of course, I like writing. I do that on my blogs, Kirbie Goes to Hollywood and Mentervention.

4. You seem really busy with POPSUGAR, how do you find time to work out and stay healthy?

One thing I learned is that if I am going to be active, it has to be in the mornings. Otherwise, I'm tempted to go to an event or party and skip a workout altogether. I have a major sweet tooth, so I have to curb that from time to time, but basically, just packing my lunch every night really keeps me on track. That way I'm never in a rut and don't have something to eat, and won't be tempted to order takeout. The tale of terrible metabolism at 26 really is true, so eating clean and healthy is actually something I enjoy doing now. (Who am I?)

5. What beauty products can you not live without?

This a loaded question! Since I host the beauty videos, I get to test so many amazing products. I've broken them up:

All-time favorites: Mario Badescu's Suncare -- you need at least SPF 30 and it doesn't smell like a sunscreen, plus it is great if you tend to get oily. Guerlain's Cils d'Enfer Mascara is my favorite beauty splurge, because I love mascara and usually opt for L'Oreal Voluminous, but Guerlain's really thickens, lengthens and curls your lashes. The wand is kick ass. And, my secret weapon is this miracle worker from NYX. It's called the Wonder Pencil, and it really is magical. I use it to line my lips, highlight the inner corner of my eyes, and cover blemishes. It's $5 and a lifesaver. Also, I can't stress the power of exfoliating your skin. It will keep you looking bright and youthful! So if you are not already obsessed with a Clarisonic Brush, try Dr. Lancer's Skin Polish. It's non-irritating and Dr. Lancer treats every celebrity known to man! 

As far as new items, pick up Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetic's polish in Gryphon, a gorgeous light grey. Anything from the Marc Jacobs Beauty line is a good call -- the Lip Vinyl is my favorite. 

6. Who is your celebrity crush?

I am a huge fangirl, even at the age of 26. Mama has to feel the youth somehow! I think I've graduated from Justin Timberlake... he is married and ain't nobody got any time for that. I think Clay Matthews (Green Bay Packers) is a STUD MUFFIN. He looks like Thor, and he seems to have a great sense of humor. And, don't judge me, but I'm about to go J-Lo/Casper Smart here and just say it: Harry Styles is adorable. I know he's 19. I KNOW THIS. But I saw One Direction in concert and I was just like... I get it now. I was mesmerized. There's something about him. He's got it — the X Factor, if you will. And I'm happy to report that I was not even close to being the oldest fan there. 

7. When was your "a-ha" moment that you had reached success?

To be honest, I don't think anyone can really define "success." I know for me, personally, I love my job, but I still have plenty of other goals and dreams I want to accomplish and attain! I have also learned since being in LA that you can't say, "I will be happy when X happens." Because you'll spend so much time working towards that point that you'll miss the beautiful experiences during the journey to get there. 

That being said, there have been a few "pinch me!" moments, those being when I interviewed Zooey Deschanel, Rihanna and Nicole Richie. That was something. And when two of my favorite brands, Victoria's Secret and Benefit Cosmetics, asked me to shoot a few videos with them, I thought, "My 13-year-old self would think this is pretty darn cool." And it was!

8. What can people expect watching you on POPSUGAR?

Beauty reviews on all the best and latest beauty launches, tutorials... celebrity interviews! I consider myself a beauty guinea pig... I try anything once, all for the camera. Ha. 

9. What advice can you give women pursuing the entertainment industry?

Wake up and remember, every morning, that you are in charge of your own actions. Don't let anyone phase you! You are your biggest cheerleader. You have to believe that, no matter what anyone says or does (or doesn't do), that you are meant to be where you are, pursuing your career. And remember that you shouldn't give up anything you can't go a day thinking about. Whether it's your dreams or your boyfriend, know that it's worth fighting for, if it's something you are truly passionate about. 

And remember, it's always best to be kind! You can get what you want and still be kind to others.

@KirbieJ
KirbieJohnson.com

I Always Get Consent!

Special Thanks to Gabby, Jaclyn, Jenna, and Kappa Alpha Theta Arizona State.

One in every six.  One in every six women will be sexually assaulted or raped in her lifetime.  Sadly, this statistic became a reality when one ASU student, Jenna, was sexually assaulted after a party on campus during her freshman year in 2010.  Terrifying?  Absolutely.  But Jenna did not let this horrific experience tear her down.  Instead, this nightmare turned Jenna, and her loving sorority sisters, into advocates for social justice.  With the support of sorority sisters Gabby and Jaclyn (among other friends), change was about to take place.  I Always Get Consent was born.

"I was oblivious to the statistics- I thought that rapes were very rare and only occurred if you were walking alone in a dark alley," Jenna states on the I Always Get Consent site.  "The sad truth is that rapes happen every day, and college campuses are especially dangerous.  I was frustrated that I was never educated on the dangers of sexual assault, so my friends and I created this event; We were eager to get this conversation started.  It is so important to learn the facts, and vow to always get consent," Jenna adds.

With the support of the Arizona State University Panhellenic Council (plus additional off-campus, university, and student organizations), the friends host a week-long event held on campus.  Friends, acquaintances, and campus clubs alike, unite to educate their school on sexual assault.  ASU Heath and Wellness Counseling and Consultation also sets up tables on the student lawn to inform students of the pressing issue.  A main event is also held, including a panel discussion for students. Among the knowledge being taught?  Educating the students on what consent really means, and encouraging them to make a pledge to always get consent.  Men and women alike learn about the issue, and ways to avoid and deal with sexually compromising situations.  Everyone and anyone can be a victim of sexual assault.  It's important to support these victims, and encourage them to come forward.

The "I ALWAYS Get Consent!" movement is now in it's third year, thanks to these inspiring sorority sisters. "It has been expanding rapidly, with multiple colleges across the country asking to bring this movement to their own campuses," Gabby states.  TSS is proud to support the I Always Get Consent team- along with their dedication and strong sense of sisterhood.  Now, what about that frightening one in six statistic?  "While this is a scary statistic, it has motivated us to work to decrease these numbers," adds Gabby.  One thing is certain-- we ALWAYS get consent!

For more information, please visit I Always Get Consent.

Katwalk Philanthropy

Last week, TSS was proud to be involved with a very special philanthropy event- Katwalk!  Katwalk is the annual event hosted by Kappa Alpha Theta at the University of Colorado Boulder.  Our very own It Girl, Alyx, was also the emcee for the event!  Katwalk raises money for Kappa Alpha Theta's official philanthropy, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).  As stated on the Theta website, "CASA programs can help a displaced child find the security needed to grow and reach full potential."

We sat down with Alyx to ask her a little bit about the event- and the models who walked down the Katwalk runway, representing TSS!

TSS: What exactly is Katwalk?
Alyx: Katwalk is a fashion show event to raise money for CASA.  25 organizations on campus participated, and were each given 45 seconds to walk down the runway.  They each put together dances and fun skits, to show off to the audience.  The cool thing is that not only did Greek organizations participate, but so did other campus organizations- such as the CU Dance Team!

TSS: That's so awesome that all of campus got involved!  How did you raise money, and how much did you raise?
Alyx: This year, we raised about $3,500!  We raised funds through the entry fee, participation, VIP ticket sales, and donations.  VIP's got front row seats, and goody bags!

TSS: How did you integrate CASA into the event?
Alyx: A CASA came to our event, and spoke at the beginning to introduce Katwalk.  He explained to the crowd how CASA helps to give kids a stable role model, and someone to count on.  It's so important that kids feel comforted and like someone is there for them... and that's exactly where CASA steps in to help.

TSS: What was your favorite part of Katwalk?
Alyx: The best part was seeing the Boulder community come together, have fun with one another, and all support a cause.  I also loved being the emcee!  I had a great time coming up with quirky lines and commentary after each participant took stage.  It was also exciting to see TSS represented on the runway!  The models wearing the TSS tees had a ton of fun dancing on stage.  All in all, Katwalk was a great event!

We are so happy that TSS could be a part of Katwalk.  CU Boulder Thetas, thanks for having us!