Final Project

 Final Project

Madisyn Morphew

Professor Reppert 

Reporting and Writing for the Mass Media

Fall 2025

Members of Phi Mu and Phi Lamb on Move-in Day.

What Phi Mu Has Taught Me

Visual journalism asks us to look closer at communities and analyze things. For this idea I wanted to direct this interest towards Phi Mu. This is an organization that is built on connection, growth, and love. Greek life has very many assumptions and stereotypes, but being on the inside point of view is an amazing experience. The atmosphere is shaped by teamwork, creativity, and unexpected lessons. This blog will explore the things that I have learned and observed. These experiences have shaped both my personal perspective and my skills as a visual storyteller.

Left is picture of me and a Phi Mu sister at the Greek Canoe Race.

Right is a banner I painted for a Phi Mu Sisterhood Event.

Sisterhood & Leadership

One of the clearest things I've learned in Phi Mu is about sisterhood. Moments like late nights, philanthropy events, and even chapter meetings turn into a meaningful connection. These experiences gave me a better understanding of how relationships evolve and how community spaces become their own visual language. Documenting moments like these have taught me to look for authenticity rather than perfection.

Greek life teaches leadership in ways that you can't fully understand until you're in it. From planning events, managing deadlines, delegating tasks, to supporting others. These experiences have helped me build real organizational skills. 

Being in Phi Mu or any other Greek organization requires balancing multiple roles at once, and those habits can strengthen the ability to approach projects with structure and intention. These are great skills for the job market after graduating. As stated in an article by Foundation for Fraternal Excellence, "More than half of fraternity and sorority alumni, compared to just 36% of nonaffiliated alumni, had accepted a job offer or found employment within two months of graduation."

Me and my sorority big helping freshmen move in.

Meaningful Impact

Our philanthropy work has given me a deeper viewpoint on service and social awareness. The level of outreach taught me how a group can influence its community, even in small ways. Documenting these experiences has also given me better ideas on representation. All Greek organizations have their own philanthropy that they raise money for. 

If you want more information on the Phi Mu philanthropy click this link: Phi Mu Philanthropy

Phi Mu's Soda Bar to raise money.

Our decoration for philanthropy night.

Personal Growth & How to Join

Phi Mu is able to shape lives personally. I became more confident speaking to groups, better at reading social dynamics, and learning to take initiative. It also allowed me to try new things. Greek life often gets judged for many things, but for many students it becomes a place where they learn practical communication skills, build friendships, and explore their creative outlet. 

If you are interested there are many people on your campus that you can reach out too, including, current members or the Greek life coordinator. 

Me and my roommates- they are also in Phi Mu.

Greek Life Overview

Greek life pushed me to work with others and take responsibility. Phi Mu wasn't just a college activity, it became a setting where I learned how to observe, analyze, and express the world around me. It is an amazing experience that can change anyone for the better. There are so many visual moments that can be captured to create stories that feel honest and grounded. 

New members who are excited for their bid day.