Raising the Bar, KDPhi Style: Judy Visoury

When I first brainstormed about writing an article profiling an inspirational woman among sororities, I immediately thought of my fellow sorority sister, Judy Visoury -- not just because we're both members of alpha Kappa Delta Phi, but because of the amazing impact she has made in our sorority, campus and community during her four years at UNC-Chapel Hill. I remember Judy during her freshman year, mine as a senior. She was a young woman, finding her way like many of the thousands of students at UNC and universities around the nation. Many doors are open in life, different opportunities, different paths and Judy took the road less traveled and paved the way for many women and university students.

Judy Visoury is from Greensboro, North Carolina and is the first in her family to attend college. Among her many accomplishments in college, she held the positions of President of alpha Kappa Delta Phi at UNC-Chapel Hill and President of the Greek Alliance Council, was awarded the Greek Woman of the Year (2005), and was inducted into the Order of the Golden Fleece for her dedication and long-lasting contributions to the Greek Alliance Council and University Greek system. Carol So, past president of KDPhi at UNC-Chapel Hill, said of Judy, "She is an incredibly focused individual who has always impressed me with her ability to get so many things done despite the circumstances. She continually raises the bar for others with her creativity and passion, shown through the quality and consistency seen in all her endeavors." This May, Judy graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

As the first person in your family to attend college, what goals did you have before starting school?
Honestly, as the first to attend college, all I wanted to do was do well academically to make my parents proud and to one day become a doctor. With no stories from my parents to guide me on what college was supposed to be like, I found even greater goals as a student at UNC. I would have never imagined being a typical "Asian" student that
just attends classes to make the grades and to get into the professional schools of their choice, with a little or no social life. What I found has astounded me. My goals changed completely within my first semester as a college student. I learned that college life is
an enriching experience that defines who you are and what you'll be beyond the classroom.

How did you find alpha Kappa Delta Phi (KDPhi)? What inspired you to join a sorority, specifically KDPhi?
I remember seeing a table at orientation for KDPhi but I didn't sign up. After an ASA meeting flyers were being handed out and I thought to myself it doesn't hurt to check this out because ASA [Asian Students Association] didn't make me feel comfortable. I was inspired to join a sorority, KDPhi specifically, because the actives represented themselves as leaders and strong Asian American females. With no guidance or advice on what college would be like, the actives appeared as a good source for guidance. They all had different majors and career goals, and a good role model is what every young female, especially in my shoes, looks for.

How did you ultimately decide to become a sister? What about it appealed to you the most? What reservations did you have?
I felt that the sorority would become my home away from home and would be a good source for personal and academic growth. I had no knowledge of the Greek system before going to the info session before rush, so I wasn't jaded with stereotypes often placed upon Greeks. I was simply interested in KDPhi due to the information they presented and the girls that were active [members].

What were two things that you learned while being a sister that you don't think you would've learned had you not joined a sorority?
I learned that being honest with yourself and with others only leads to success. I found a group of girls that I could be honest with, and every girl needs that. Knowing that you can go to someone and they tell you the truth even if it's not what you want to hear is very important. It's kind of like constructive criticism but in a more personal way.

I learned how to define my strengths and weaknesses. The sorority taught me how to manage my time and how to work in a certain setting. I learned that I had an innate sense for leadership, and it has guided me throughout my college experience. Knowing what one's weaknesses are only helps in overcoming them.

What are some benefits and disadvantages of being part of a sorority?
The benefits are endless. There are positives in every aspect of life. I have friends for life, support for life, ideas for life, memories for life etc. Opportunities were endless for personal and professional growth. The only negative was being placed under a stereotype. When you label yourself with Greek letters, you are opening yourself up for ridicule and judgment. It's a challenge but well worth it.

Did being actively involved in your sorority take time away from other activities, work or organizations? If so, how did you handle that?
Being involved in the sorority did take time away from other activities, but it also created opportunities for more activities. It's all about becoming comfortable with yourself, managing your time wisely, and prioritizing. Once mastered, I made the best out of my time and my college experience.

What accomplishments are you most proud of and why?
Making a difference at such a big university. I never imagined attending a large university and getting involved to the point where I left a mark. Creating stability for the Greek Alliance Council is by far one of my biggest accomplishments. Creating a place for non-traditional Greeks to unite and gain support from the community was truly a rewarding experience. For years to come, I will be able to come back to UNC and know that I made a difference in diversifying and educating students at UNC.

How did being part of the Greek system change your life?
It pretty much became my life. It defines who I am, one that serves the community, cares for others, has a passion for change. It truly pushed me to my limits and made me stronger.

As an alumnae, do you plan on continuing to be active within your sorority and the Greek system and if so, how and why?
I will definitely continue to be active within my sorority and in the Greek system at UNC. My sorority and the Greek system taught me so much and gave me so much that I will continue to give back but also continue to share and educate others that come after me. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I just went on with my life without giving back to the Greek system and my sorority. It's hard to let go after being dedicated to building and improving something for four years of your life. I do believe in change, therefore I trust that those in leadership now will do a great job, but receiving updates and
being able to give feedback will help me in continuing to contribute to and improve the system.

What advice would you give to young women, looking into joining a sorority?
The Greek System if extremely diverse. Figure out what you are looking for, do your research, and I am sure that you'll find a fit. The Greek systems will only give you what you put into it. Ultimately it depends on what you want and what hope to gain and learn from it. Don't be discouraged by the negative stereotypes. There are all different kinds of Greeks. If you do go Greek, I assure you it will be a rewarding and enriching experience.

Today, Judy continues to be involved with her sorority and the UNC's Greek system. She is the manager of the new restaurant, Akashi Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar, and is currently studying for the LSATs. While her resume lists her endeavors such as the Greek Women of the Year Award, Judy lists one of her greatest accomplishments as "being a good sister to my sorority sisters".

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