Michelle Fong
Transcription
Michelle Fong
THE SECRETS TO BEING PRESIDENT – EXPOSED by Michelle Fong I ran for president to better the chapter, to step up and do what I could to improve the institution that so readily gave me life lessons, great experiences, and unbreakable friendships. But in the end, Alpha Phi Omega pulled its number on me again and managed to teach me more than I ever thought possible. I find myself once again indebted to Rho Rho for the self-growth I‟ve undergone. Great. -DETAILS notREVEALEDI will begin with my serious shpeel of wants and needs for the chapter; During pledging I sat back and watched the leaders lead but picked up some motivation on my own and stepped up for spirit, moved on to historian, socialized with IC and then became president. I‟ve had much time to develop my APHIO mindset and realized that things are as only good as you make it. I‟ve always tried my best to avoid awful clichés but when it comes down to it, there is this undeniable truth behind them all. We are a fraternity derived on principles of Leadership, Friendship and Service. And despite the multiple times I‟ve heard and said this, I continually am gaining insight on it‟s meaning. Upon crossing I have realized that Alpha Phi Omega can mean different things to different people, but in the end- it‟s pretty insane to realize how much you all care. Making a difference and giving back is all part of the cycle; creating and maintaining an institution that provided you with the best of the opportunities-that is what I came to do. I hope my implementations of the slightest change towards the better, positive energy, and dedication to the fraternity has helped you all in even the smallest of ways. In all honesty- you have all contributed to a small part of me, active and pledge alike, and I hope you don‟t mind that a part of you is carried with me now wherever I go. So the secrets behind being president. You want to know? Well I suppose I could talk to you of the hardships and the challenges but why? With all secrets exposed I would ruin the mystery and the excitement of leading a fraternity, and then what good is that? You may all someday choose to take the path I did and half of the joy in the journey is not knowing what‟s to come. You must all find the answers for yourselves. I will however answer the one question that I‟m most commonly asked by actives, pledges, and Frankie J: “How do you deal? Listed below are a number of ways in which I have dealt with the stress and turmoil of being president. Perhaps one day this list may be of use to you? (: + Singingin the shower - I find this most effective when no one is home + Yelling at Matt Kim – Effective only when he starts spazzing out and yelling back + Eating Ice Cream – Flavor varies with mood, and company also makes a difference + Mouthing the words to Eminem‟s Superman – stress reliever for obvious reasons + Calling my Pops – He has all the answers. + Other ways deemed as too emo to share -THE TRAGIC AFTERMATHSo I challenge you all to step up, take hold of the opportunities the fraternity has for you. College time is your time. So here‟s to you Rho Rho. Thanks for the wonderful term and the notalwayswonderfulbutrelevant experiences You‟ve made me proud and it‟s been an honor serving you. Shoutouts to my roommates who deal with my singing, rants, and disappearing ice cream cartons. I was also blessed with a beautiful baby Sexcomm this term esp my Co. They have slowly become my pride and joy next to my little and big. Love my new grand, live it up Tau know that I have high expectations for all of you. MUCH LOVE TO OUR ADVISORS AND SECTION CHAIR. Thanks for everything! Gotta go now, I think my phone is vibrating. Gone for now, but not forever. iLFS, Michelle Fong OMICRON` STAYIN STRONG :] Tau Sexcomm RACHEL CHANG!! I’m going to miss you SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOm uch!!! I’m gonna miss our late night rants and the sad nights when no one came to our fellowships...and I’m gonna miss all the successful ones we had and how proud and happy we were. And all the times we couldn’t decide on centaur and wanted to reward ourselves LOL. And all the hilarious conversations we had and how we always agreed that we were the most hilarious people on earth. ^_^ I’m so glad we decided to go thru with this and run together!! You’re the best co and I couldn’t have done this with anyone else!! Rach, I REALLY hope you bring back a Parisian boy and you wow him with all of your awesome fellowship ideas…AHAHAHAHA JK JK. But don’t worry, I’LL BE HERE WHEN YOU GET BACK!!! Who knows, maybe fellowship in the future?? WHY NOT! “Down”. =D To my Little, Christina Chan the Screamer (JK!): WHAT AM I GONNA DO WITHOUT YOU NEXT YEAR?! =( I’m gonna miss you a little more than Rachel (lol)…but I’m glad that we have the summer to hang out and you only live 5 minutes away from me! I’m so glad we were on Excom together, because it wouldn’t have been so fun if you weren’t! I’ll miss making you come over to my place (MUAHAH) and our sleepovers (=D). BUT you will be in Anaheim next year and that means that we can still go shopping and have our sleepovers to catch up =] Even though I secretly wished you failed a class so you can stay a 5th year, I’ll be nice and let you graduate…but you better promise to hang out with me at home and drive me somewhere AT LEAST ONCE! To the mall, preferably, and TeaWay too =D. I LUV YOU!!! One and only Little! Hi hi hi!!! I'm so sad to write this right now But I wanna thank a lot of people for helping me grow a lot both as a person and as a brotha this term!!! Erin you are da best!!!!!!! Holy crackers!! I couldn’t have asked for a better co, especially as my first time on Excomm. I’ve seen a lot of sides of you while working together: the little angry Asian girl, the loving motha, the stone face, and especially the “lil girl swag.” (Credit: Jeromiah Huey) You are so cute and hearing your voice always makes me feel like I’m watching my favorite cartoon or something!! Haha. You are the best. I wuv you. Don’t abandon me now that you have a new co…. I’ll bring you a baguette from Paris. Maybe some more oranges. LOL ok bai. First Overheard at APO suggestion: Rachel: Are we supposed to make our newsletter look pretty? Erin: Ya!!! But we’re pretty already so we don't needa put that much effort! LOOOOVE, Rachel “Changry” Tau Term Sexcomm. The Centaurs….. of my heart. LOL Thank you guys for EVERYTHING this term. I feel like you guys are some of my closest friends in APO, and because of you guys I feel like my opinion matters. *Tear* It’s been a really great term, we’ve been through our ups and downs, and I’m happy that I had the privilege to go through it all with each and every one of you guys!!! I wuv you guys and gals a lot lot lot lot! It is now clear, It definitely did some mental damage that my last term as an active is here But with each position, It’s been a good run I learned how to better listen And it’s been a lot of fun We live and we grow With each and every term in mind, and we know what we know I would like to reflect on this experience of mine APhiO is the sh*t I pledged as a Xi And nothing comes close to beating it Yes I’m APhiOld, le sigh. With this bittersweet feeling inside I know that pledging is something I will never forget I’m pushing APhiO aside And I thank each and every person that I’ve met It’s time for me to go chase after my dreams Through all the terms, Hopefully it’s not as hard as it seems and (FAILED) midterms, Thank you and goodbye APhiO The ups and the downs, Rho Rho you know fosho. And the smiles and the frowns, I must say, I lovethe person I’ve grown to be I hated talking in front of big crowds, And I never had the guts to say my thoughts out loud Running for Excomm was simply a thought Who would’ve known that I’d be doing it a lot Fellowship VP helped me learn how to plan But Susan was my co, someone I couldn’t stand (jk) Pledge parent was one hell of a good time On a side note, I’d like to thank: Indira Singh - my closest friend all four years inside and outside of APhiO, Denny Yeh – Brother!!, My Biggie – it’s been 3 years too long! <3i’m glad we’re kinda friends, Susan Kim – pirate week!! we did mama proud!, Sigpapa – it was a good run, we raised our kids well..hmm maybe with the exception of a few..they’re definitely YOUR kids, but don’t (body) roll out of my life after we graduate. Timmy Do – aww, fu*k, roll, i’m glad we cried together and got closer. SIGMA CLASS – you guys will always be in my heart, I love you all! Rho S.Excomm, Sigma Fl.Excomm, TauS.Excomm , RHORHO – you guys all helped me grow as a person and I really appreciate each and every one of you…even though it seems like a secret sometimes. SIGMA CLASS IS DEFINITELY ONE OF A KIND <3 Oh yeah, Denny Bui. Enough said. HAHA Membership VP was hard to manage With love, Linda Nguyen (Xi Class) I can‟t believe how fast this term has gone by! Ahhhh! Ok, well I‟m really grateful for being given the chance to serve as one of rho rho‟s corresponding secretaries for Tau Term. It‟s been so much fun, and it has really helped me grow, and I can‟t believe it‟s over! Co- Thanks sooo much for everything this term! I really enjoyed working with you, and seriously, the world would be so much better if we ruled it, right?? Hahaha =) Congrats on graduating, and good luck! Come back and visit though, k? <3 Big- Thanks for everything you‟ve done for me in the past year, congrats on graduating, and good luck with everything. Little- I‟m really excited to have you as a little! You have to be active though, because you promised, k? <3 Dum Dum- The square root of 69 is 8 something right? Cuz I‟ve been trying to work it out, ohhhh….. Lols Golden Line- LOVE YOU ALL! You guys are the best! Sexcomm- I couldn‟t have asked for a better group of people to work with in my first excomm experience. Thank you guys for everything! Roomie/ Twinsie- Let‟s paint our nails! LOLS Baiady, Parth, Tim, Carolyn, Jane and Little- oioioioioioi!!!! RHO CLASS- <3 <3 <3 Rho Rho- Thanks soo much for coming out to all the IC events! Hope you enjoyed them, and keep in touch with all the IC friends you made!!!! =D Thanks to EVERYONE for a great term! See you around!!! <3 Lindsay Yamauchi Tau Term Corresponding Secretary Dear Brothers, I would like to start by saying thank you for electing and trusting in me as your Corresponding Secretary for Tau Term. This position was overwhelming in the beginning and I would not have been able to put any of the Interchaper events on, yet alone be as composed if it wasn't for the help of my amazing co, Lindsay Yamauchi, past Brothers who held this position, the rest of S.Excomm and the supportive Brothers of Rho Rho. The experience I had in S.Exomm 2011 has been unparalleled to any position I have had in the past. To work with such dedicated and compassionate individuals has been inspiring as qualities I try to live up to. It has been an absolute honor to have had the chance to get to know each of you in Rho Rho. I heard of Alpha Phi Omega prior to pledging but everything I later found in this fraternity has exceeded any and all assumptions and expectations. Here, I have found true leaders, selfless individuals dedicated to helping others and friendships that I hope are lifelong. I am humbled by this entire experience and to fully understand just how much this fraternity has impacted me would take volumes of books and gigabytes of video clips and pictures. I am in awe of Rho Rho and all we have done and all we are capable of. I hope each of you have found in Rho Rho what I have, and if you haven't yet, I hope you will stay around to find out. I am thankful for each of you and am proud to call you my Brothers. <3 Annie Liu Hey everyone!! I hope you are enjoying the newsletter so far!! It’s been a great 15 weeks serving as your Recording secretary!! I never imagined being on Excomm and talking to such a big group of people all by myself; I’m so glad I decided to run because it has definitely taught me so much! I’m also really glad that I decided to re-pledge APhiO here at UCI. I still remember spring 2010’s info night very clearly. Coming from UCSC and APhiO there, all I heard about UCI’s APhiO was that the chapter was huge!! Everyone who told me that was really not kidding. After talking to Becky and Yenlan and explaining my situation, they encouraged me to pledge again here, and so I did. Thanks mommies! I’m so glad I did! I could have just transferred my membership over, but what fun would that have been? I wouldn’t have gotten to know anymore on a more personal level, I wouldn’t have been part of RHO CLASS (HAPPY 1 YEAR!!), and who knows, I might have not been placed in GOLDEN LINE! I have such wonderful family and I am so grateful or it! I’m going to miss you all when I graduate and I will never forget what I have learned in APhiO. Now for the most important part, SHORT GIRL LINE! LOL! BIG – So, I totally read your article before finishing this and you had stuff I was going to write! LOL I’m gunna miss baking browning with strawberries and talking to you late at night!! SHOPPING! Always seeing you with a pile of clothes to your face to try on at forever is priceless! LOL! OH and I cannot forget about the most important thing, TAPIOCA!!!! LOL! Were such addicts with crazy coupons!! Hahahaha!!! I’m gunna miss you SO MUCH!! Good thing were only like 5 minutes away from each other in SF (94127)!! Yay!! Lots of eating and shopping this summer, yeah?! :D LIL – The first time I met you was at revealing and I didn’t know who you were, but I was sure glad that I got you! Hahaha!!! I’ve seen you grown so much in the past couple of weeks and I am SO proud of you!! I’m sorry I’m graduating, but I’ll be close, so no worries! I’m always a phone call away and you’re always welcome to come visit me!!! :D Ps. One more sleepover before we leave, yeah? ♥ ♥ Christina Chan Dear Tau Term, Thank you for having us as your TAU SAA’s. You guys were quite hard to manage and extremely loud. I am thankful that many of you did follow our instructions at times and sat closer or used your laptops less. I had an amazing time laughing at the ways you guys made fools of yourself when you participated in our icebreakers. I also hoped that you guys liked the icebreakers we did. We really tried our best to make fun, embarrassing, and messy ones. Being on SEX-comm has taught me many new things. Now I understand how much effort EX-comm puts into running this fraternity. Many issues also go through ex-comm and we spent many hours coming to these solutions. But from the time spent on these issues, I have seen both the serious and fun side of your peers. We also came up with the idea of performing a mock quorum in Parli Pros and that was probably the greatest idea we ever came up with this term. Running nominations and elections was quite difficult at times, and I’ve grown to understand how unclear the bylaws and rules of order. Elections are probably the most tiring part of being an SAA… just because it takes forever, but it’s great to see other people’s speeches. My co’s were pretty awesome. Robert “Bylaw” Lin and Andrew “Badday” Baiady. This term was so troubling and we received so much shit as SAAs, but it was worth it. Wouldn’t ask for any other cos. David Chan (RHO CLASS) WHADUUUPPPPPPPP. RHO CLASS!@!@!@!!!!!!!! ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY. I’m beginning to understand why the XI’s feel so old. We’re two terms old now. SHITTZZ. DAAAAYYUUUUUUUmMMM. Soon to be apart of AphiOLD. - I hope the more RHOS will run for excomm position because it’s really fun, and it is a great experience. If you say active status is boring, it’s because you’re not doing enough. thanks andrew and david for being such awesome co’s! go saa’s! Thanks for putting up with my shit :D -To the THUNDEROUS TRIO LOL - Rob Lin The Time of My Life I cannot really explain how much all the people of APO mean to me. I am a transfer student so I was unable to make friends from dorms or halls (whatever you smart kids call it). When I got to campus I saw a sign on ring road that said “APHIO Loves Everyone”. Who would have known that sign would change my life. During info night I was so close to leaving, because I was just by myself thinking this would be lame. Then Sheila Hwe came up to me and told me to stay, so I did and was still whatever about it. Then at pinning Annie Liu came up to me, because again I was all by myself and basically was my first friend in Irvine. Her being so friendly made it obvious for me to stay and she is now one of my best friend and pretty much a sister to me. I am telling this story because it shows how wonderful the people are in this fraternity and how we are all truly brothers. I didn‟t think I would enjoy Irvine this much, but all of you brothers made this the best time a person could ask for. I seriously love you all and would do anything for you guys because you changed my life and I will never forget it. I did not come into aphio to do service or put things on my resume but came to meet people, and I met the best people in the world. My advice to everyone that is still active take advantage of all the wonderful times and people because when the clock ticks down to your graduation, it simply sucks. I‟m dreading leaving Irvine because of all the brothers I have met and will never forget. I wanted to be so many other places then at UCI, and was so sad when I had to come here. But, it proves everything happens for a reason, because if I was still in BC or at USC I would not have all of you which would be just a terrible life. I know t his sounds weird coming from me (the asshole, jerk, dick, etc.) but I do it seriously out of love. I will miss you all and please don‟t forget me. Some individual lovin‟: Jero and Matt C.: I love you bitches. You guys are seriously my boys and really hope I can remain as close with you guys forever. We have so many good memories in such little time, and we have some so much in so little time. I would do anything to kick it with you guys forever and just chill with a „soda‟ and kick it. But seriously, thank you guys for everything. Without you fools my life would not be the same. Stay chill and don‟t replace me, your master will return. Golden Line: my family. My real family. The definition of „family‟ should simply be „Golden Line‟. There is no family like us, and I love you all and will come to Irvine just to hang out with what is truly a family. From the thanksgiving dinners to the secret Santa exchanges. I could not imagine aphio without the love and support of GOLDEN. Ive learned so much from many of you guys and have so many memories that I will never forget. Thank you for the support and love. Whenever any of you need something, do not hesitate to call me. Andeezie, Kimoto and Emily: I don‟t know if you‟ll actually read this, but I‟ll just say I LOVE YOU GUYS. Nothing too sappy, because I‟ll probably be right next to you when you read this. But ill just say I love you guys and you guys are my best friends. Paul and Karen: my mommy and daddy. Without you guys I don‟t know where I would be in this fraternity. Paul, I am thankful now I can call you one of my best friends and hope it is mutual. Your friendship means the world to me and just thankful you are in my life. Karen, true definition of a pledge momma. You were always there for me when I needed questions answered when it was being a pledge parent or IC, you were just t here. No matter if I was crossed or not, you treated me as your son and loved me like your son and would not know where I would be without your advice and wonderful words. You guys are seriously the best pledge parents of all time, and people know it. I am a pledge parent right now and would never call myself the best (even jokingly) because I had you two. The best combination a pledge kid could ask for. Pi class would have been no where without your love and guidance throughout the term. You guys influenced me to do so much, such as pledge parent. Seeing your guy‟s reaction at activation and banquet made me instantly believe I wanted to be pledge parent. Thank you for everything and I love you guys very very much. Tau Class: what up. Sorry for messing with you guys so much, but it was all out of love. Just wanted to say thanks for the best time of my life and you guys are the best thing to happen to me. I love you all individually and blessed to have all 109 in my life. Even after you cross do not be afraid to bother me with questions about life or fraternity stuff because I will be there for you guys. Make me prouder, do stuff for rho rho and just take advantage of everything this chapter has to offer you because it is a lot. I know you guys will be the best class ever and make the second best pledge dad proud. Jenn Dao-n the hall: my number 1 bro. thanks for being a dope roomie and just a dope person to be around. Again, you will probably be right next to me so I aint gonna be sappy. Michelle F: thanks for being my „bestie‟ and wingman these past 2 year. I‟ll talk to you later, it‟s too weird talking nice to you. Suz: who would have known we would have 109 kids together… haha, pretty disgusting joke, but yeaaaaah. Thanks for seriously being the best co a person could ask for. I could not imagine having another person be my partner during this epic term. I am glad to have gotten super close with you and blessed to have you as my partner. Thank you so much. Annie: NIIIIICE. You never forget a first friend, and you were seriously my first friend here. Thank you for being so nice and open during pledging which helped me a lot. You are a true definition of a good person and a great friend that I will never forget. Little (Monica): I‟m very happy to call you my little and can‟t imagine having anyone else as my little. I love you very much and will do anything for you. Whenever you need me just hit me up and I will be here for you. I will miss you, and miss not kicking it with you on a weekly basis. But, I will be back to hang out. Love you little! And good luck with everything! BIG!: YO! We aren‟t really the sentimental type, but f*ck it. You are the best big a person could ask for and glad to have gotten you. I‟m seriously gonna miss you a lot, and kiiiiinda dreading when you leave. But you changed my like significantly and I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for me. But yeah, I‟ll tell you more later. Just wanted the chapter to know I love my big. Crazy Fam! From Crazy Fam Heads: CRAZZZYYY FAM!!!!! To all the fams and brothers: Thanks for letting us be your fam heads and I hope you guys had tons of fun, TAU TERM!! Thanks for bringing CRAZZZYYY spirit and supporting us throughout the term! GANGSTA Ly Jersey Ninja Party Skyline WE OWE IT ALL TO THE BEST FAMILY EVER!!! Sexy brothers, It has been such an AMAZING time being your SEXY family heads!! From the spirit to the new Taus, we hope you all enjoyed this term as much as we have. Stay SEXXXY!!! Your Tau Sexy Family Heads, <3 Jackie Hernandez & Yesenia Palacios P.S. Goldens stay golden Royals stay classy Ungs, Trust in the Thrust Legendary, we will never forget your cow and penguin roots Dinos, please don't go extinct I said: BRRR! It’s COLD in here! There must be some RHO RHO! In the atmosphere! It has been an awesome experience standing at the podium every GBM and seeing how much spirit this chapter has got. JJ and I promised to work hard and change a lot of the spirit festivities this term, but in reality it has been all of you guys that were louder and more pumped up for everything. I would like to thank all of you who dressed up week after week, those of you who participated and cheered and laughed (WITH us) during our songs, those of you who took pictures with their mascot, and those of you who went all-out when cheering for your families. As a final message, we would like to remind you that spirit is not just family pride at GBM, but it is also Alpha Phi Omega pride on campus and Rho Rho pride outside of UCI. To my b-e-a-UTIFUL co, John Jonson: Thank you for all the work you put into being a Spirit Chair with me. Your enthusiasm and great ideas were the reason this chapter has become so much more spirited over this term. Your creativity with songs, dances and cheers gave us an awesome half-time show at every GBM. And finally, the amount of pride you have for this fraternity and this chapter surprised even me and has helped me grow into a more spirited person. Through all the hilarious times we would sit and brainstorm to all the why-can’t-any-of-these-pledges-spell-our-names-right moments, working with you has been a great experience and I would gladly do it all over again! Shout outs to: my biggie, Jenn Dao & my triplet, Justine Oh my littles, Annie Kim & Jane Chang my favorite Tzyy’s, Carl Villajin, Lindsay Chin, Tim Pardo & Carolyn Pham my favorite honorary’s, Diana Park & Lindsay Yamauchi my diversity crew, Andrew Baiady & Mario Chacon oi oi oi oi A big hearty welcome to Tau Class and a teary-eyed goodbye to the graduates! -Parth Sitlani: Tau Term Spirit Chair OH YEAH A-PHI-O YEAH! To Everyone in RHO RHO: Thanks for allowing us to be your publicity chairs for the term. It has been fun letting our creativity flow and expressing ourselves thru the many different posters that we’ve made. To the next publicity chairs: have fun and go nuts!!! And never be too shy to rep APhiO. Rho Rho, you know fa’sho! -Christina Wong + Frances Tran Tau Term Publicity Chairs. _____________________________________________ To my awesome Co, Christina Wong! Hi CO! thank you so much for doing Publicity chair with me! It’s been a fun and interesting Term! I’ma miss hanging out with you in that poster room! LOL Thanks for always being on top of things when I’m running around trying to stay sane. Get an annual pass so we can go to d-Land like the good old times! Luv ya co! -Frances Tran _____________________________________________ Shout out to my Biggie, Robert Lin, Thanks for talking me into doing publicity, I had a lot of fun! And Congrats on graduating! Still needa watch Harry Potter when it comes out! Your awesome lil, Franny rho rho’s graduating class of 2011 Aimee Zhao Omicron Alice Chang Rho Brandon Way Omicron Alyssa Dy Xi Amara Morgan Mu Angie Vu Xi Bowie Ho Omicron Christine Wang Rho Wanda Kao Pi Tracy Villegas Xi Phil Lee Omicron Lorraine Ng Omicron Lauren Embry Xi David Poon Omicron Kristine Anglim Nu Carmen Lo Xi Wendy Fan Pi Trina Valencia Pi Susan Kim Xi Tiffany P. Tran Omicron Steven Yee Omicron Stephanie Wong Tau Seon Hee Min Omicron Sean Cao Omicron Roger Le Omicron Robert Lin Rho Vanessa Tran Omicron Kristina Barela Omicron Reya Guanzon Xi Phillip Lee Pi Mihir Shah Mu Michelle Tran Xi Michelle Huynh Sigma Melissa Lucar Pi Melissa Lau Omicron Matt Kim Pi Matthew Hwang Rho Linda Nguyen Xi Carl Villajin Omicron Carmelita Gallardo Omicron Carren Cheung Xi Casey Redublo Mu Chau Nguyen Nu Angela Hung Tau Christina Chan Rho Christina Kwak Tau Cindy Lee Omicron Cristan Villanueva Omicron Dana Chau Rho David Dalpino Xi Denny Bui Rho Denny Yeh Xi Derek Tsai Xi Derrick Lo Sigma Diana Park Omicron Edward Chu Omicron Elizabeth Hoang Tau Gabby Ng Omicron Haylee Phillips Omicron Jason Lee Pi Jeanelle Kuizon Omicron Lea Elliot Pi Lauren Tanaka Omicron Michael Hoang Tau Jessica Hwang Xi John Mai Mu Jonathan David Xi Jonathan Wang Pi Jenn Dao Omicron Jenny Park Pi Joshua Papa Pi Joyce Lee Pi Julie Truong Mu Julie Pham Pi Kristina Do Pi Katrina Lee Rho Soni (Kriti) Kumar Sigma Kevin Hong Omicron Krischa Revilla Xi Kevini Sitou Xi Erin Tsui Omicron Annie Liu Rho Brothers of Rho Rho Abigail Yusam Addie Padernal Aimee Zhao Aissa Fernandez Aivi Ngo Alan Nguyen Alice Chang Alice Le Alice Wong Alyssa Dy Amanda Lee Amara Morgan Amy Okamura Amy Tran Amy Weng Ana Liu Andrew Baiady Andrew Tapia Angie Jin Rho Sigma Omicron Omicron Rho Omicron Rho Pi Mu Xi Rho Mu Sigma Pi Pi Sigma Rho Rho Omicron Angie Vu Anna Chang Annie Kim Annie Liu Anthony Wang B. Sam Benjamin Vu Betty Ng Bowie Ho Brandon Jimenez Brandon (Xi) Shiaw Brian Sajor Carina Ip Carl Villajin Carmelita Gallardo Carmen Truong Carol Lee Caroline Hua Caroline Tith Xi Pi Sigma Rho Xi Sigma Omicron Sigma Omicron Rho Xi Sigma Sigma Omicron Omicron Omicron Omicron Rho Mu Carolyn Shin Sigma Grace Guu Rho Carren Cheung Casey Redublo Chris Dzoan Christie Le Christina Abundis Christina Chan Christina Kim Christina Wong Christina Yi Christine Caldejon Christine Park Christine Shin Christine Wang Cindy Lee Clarence Cabang Cristan Villanueva Crystal Florida Cynthia Yue Damon Liang Dan Truong Dana Chau Daniel Dang David Chan David Dalpino Denny Bui Denny Yeh Derek Tsai Derrick Lo Desmond Li Diana Park Diane Jong Edgar Flores Edna Alfaro Edward Chu Edward Park Elizabeth Yee Emily Chang Emily Luong Emily Zhou Emmeline Moran En-Chung Shih Eric Yui Erin Dong Eunice Yuan Frances Tran Gary Su Gilbert Leon Godwin Tse Xi Mu Sigma Sigma Pi Rho Rho Rho Pi Sigma Pi Sigma Rho Omicron Omicron Omicron Sigma Omicron Pi Omicron Rho Pi Rho Xi Rho Xi Xi Sigma Xi Omicron Omicron Xi Xi Omicron Pi Sigma Rho Pi Rho Sigma Sigma Omicron Omicron Rho Sigma Pi Sigma Omicron Grace Kim Grace Seto Haylee Phillips Hazel Castuciano Indi Singh Iris Fulgencio Jackie Hernandez Jaimie Otzoy Jamar Hadden Jamie Surdyka Janel Mark Janet Chang Janice Leung Jason Lee Jayvee Enverga Jeanelle Kuizon Jeffrey Chiang Jeffrey Go Jeffrey Jue Jenn Dao Jennifer (Pi) Nam Jenny Nguyen Jenny Park Jeromiah Huey Jesse Chen Jessica Hwang Jessica Ly Jessica Nguyen Joanie Kwong Jocelyn Osoy John Jonson John Mai Joie Fong Jonathan David Jonathan Revelo Jonathan Wang Joseph Lee Josephine Yao Joshua Papa Joyce Lee Julie Nguyen Julie Pham Julie Truong Justin Au Justin Lok Justine Dela Cruz Justine Oh Kaeneth Dayao Katherine Lee Kathy Truong Katrina Lee Sigma Rho Rho Michelle Fong Michelle Houang Michelle Huynh Pi Sigma Omicron Omicron Xi Xi Sigma Omicron Sigma Pi Pi Omicron Rho Pi Rho Omicron Sigma Rho Rho Omicron Pi Sigma Pi Omicron Rho Xi Pi Pi Sigma Sigma Rho Mu Omicron Xi Sigma Pi Rho Pi Pi Pi Rho Pi Mu Pi Pi Pi Sigma Pi Omicron Sigma Sigma Kenneth Fu Kevin Chen Kevin Hong Kevin Luong Kimberly Chia Kimberly Phun Kimberly Vu Kimberly Yee Kristina Barela Kristina Do Kristine Hofmann Kriti Rajput Krystofer Rosales Lauren Hamada Lauren Tanaka Lea Elliott Lessly Negrete Lilly Nguyen Linda Luu Linda (Xi) Nguyen Lindsay Yamauchi Lisa Lac Lisa Nguyen Long Nguyen Lorraine Ng Lucy Li Madeline Fu Maggie Chuang Malynn Tu Marie Anne Antiga Mario Chacon Marissa Villena Mary Nguyen Mary Ann Garcia Mary Grace Sanchez Matt Chang Matthew Hwang Matthew Kim Megan Chang Meghan Li Melissa (Omicron) Lau Melissa (Pi) Lucar Melvin Chow Michael Calderon Michael (Omicron) Lee Michael (Pi) Leao Teresa Ying Thomas Way Tiff P. Tran Tiffani Vuong Tiffanie Do Rho Sigma Omicron Sigma Pi Sigma Sigma Rho Omicron Pi Pi Sigma Rho Sigma Omicron Pi Pi Sigma Rho Xi Rho Omicron Sigma Sigma Omicron Omicron Omicron Omicron Rho Pi Pi Rho Sigma Sigma Pi Sigma Rho Pi Pi Rho Omicron Pi Sigma Sigma Omicron Pi Rho Omicron Omicron Pi Omicron Michelle Kim Michelle Shen Michelle (Xi) Tran Monica Nguyen Monica Yip Naomi Setiawati Nikita Le Nikki Mina Noreen Lee Parth Sitlani Patrick Manalo Phil (Omicron) Lee Phil (Pi) Lee Rachel Chang Rachel Tsai Rachel (Rho) Cherng Raymond Zhang Rena Yang Renee Kumra Ricky Quach Robert Lin Roger Le Ronald Mak Ruskin Cua Ryan Ho Ryan Masuda Samantha Makpaiboonvatana Sameena Sharieff Sandy Huynh Sarah (Omicron) Crawford Seon Hee Min Serene Lin Shaun Hu Shaun Su Shawn Ridgeway Shelsea Kriling Sheri Loo Simon Huynh Stacey Shim Stephanie Ho Stephanie Sarmiento Stephen Vien Steven Tran Steven Yee Susan Kim Teresa Lou Vanessa Lopez Vanessa Tran Victoria Lin Viet Nguyen Vivian Tran Rho Sigma Xi Sigma Rho Sigma Omicron Omicron Pi Rho Sigma Omicron Pi Pi Rho Rho Pi Rho Omicron Omicron Rho Omicron Pi Pi Omicron Rho Sigma Rho Omicron Omicron Omicron Pi Rho Sigma Omicron Pi Sigma Omicron Pi Sigma Sigma Pi Sigma Omicron Xi Sigma Pi Omicron Rho Rho Pi Tiffany Chen Tiffany S. Tran Timmy Do Timothy Pardo Titania Tran Tracy Lui Tran Le Treven Flores Trina Valencia Rho Omicron Pi Sigma Rho Rho Pi Pi Pi Vivian Wei Wendy Fan Wendy Zhu Will Roberts William Lu Yen Tsan Yen-tso Kuo Yesenia Palacios Sigma Pi Omicron Sigma Pi Pi Rho Sigma Hyped for TAU! Shortly after crossing during Rho Term, I left to study abroad in Taiwan, thus, I really have no idea what the “active life” really is like and not exactly sure what to expect. Whatever it may be, I am more excited than ever to find out! Let’s see…I really have no “expectations,” but I am hopeful that we all bond and work even closer than ever due to current events like the typhoon and racism on campus, and make the most out of the time we all have with one another. For me personally, as a graduating Senior, I hope to get to know and spend as much time as possible with my fellow brothers. In addition, I hope everyone is comfortable enough to voice his or her opinions despite what everyone else may think. Let’s have the best Tau term ever together - Alice Chang Project Mataguay, Spring 2011 I spent the weekend of my last spring break ever as a UCI undergraduate student at Project Mataguay, and I can tell you that it was one of the best APhiO events I had been to since I crossed (if not the best). It was a weekend service with Interchapter brothers, we spent two night living in a cabin together. Before attending the project, I never really knew any IC brothers, this event allowed me to get to know our brothers from other chapters on a more personal level, it was so much fun! As part of the fellowship, we did rifle shooting and archery at the project, additionally; we cleaned the ranches and arranged a burn pile to clear the area for natural reserve purposes. Rho Rho Gentlemen at Project Mataguay! (Actives+Alumni) I really encourage every single brother in our chapter to participate in Project Mataguay at least once. Even until now, I still keep in touch with all the IC brothers and Rho Rho alumni I have met through Project Mataguay. There are many more to it I just can’t express it all in this newsletter, so the best way to find out is……… GO TO Project Mataguay! - Denny Yeh Leadership, Friendship and Service. That is what Alpha Phi Omega is all about, yet it offers so much more than that. With every service or fellowship, the participant is almost always in for a pleasant surprise and experiences way more than what he or she ever plans on encountering. One of my more memorable services was the Children’s Water Education Festival. I initially thought that this service would be filled with either handing out water bottles to kids or just filling up buckets with water, but that was not the case at all! Who ever thought that this service would be sponsored by Disney? Being at the service that day somewhat felt like being at Disneyland itself because all the staff members were so friendly and excited to educate children about water. The little kids were also very adorable and super excited whenever they would play games and answer questions about water conservation. Although the booth I volunteered for did not involve more than just handing out Ricky the Raindrop stuffed animals to the kids after they were done being educated, it was exploring the place after the event that was pretty cool. There were many different stations that the kids would be taken to by their instructors that day. One of the booths had a blank canvas that the children would be able to paint anything on. What started out as an empty canvas in beginning ended up as an amazing piece of art by the end of the day. Although each child only contributed a little bit, each child’s effort truly made a difference and made the piece into what it turned out to be, a masterpiece! This just shows that everyone in this world is important and is capable of contributing something, no matter how young or aged. - Denny Yeh – HI BIG! It’s a little saddening to say that the year is coming to an end and I’d have to go to GBMs without you! It’s going to be two years since you’ve been my big and picked me up during Omicron term. I must say, these past couple of years has passed by so quickly and I know it’s hard to believe, but I’ll definitely miss you! You’ve been a pretty cool big and I look up to you! You know your stuff, especially things that you are most passionate about. I know that in whatever Alice Le endeavors you attend to, you’d excel and come out as top dog! Aphio won’t be the same without you, but if I did learn anything from you, I’ve learned that with the things you care most about, you must be able to speak your mind. I suppose it’s a bit difficult for me to say what I truly want, but with your support, I know I can do it. Without your commitment as a big and as a friend, I wouldn’t be here today with Aphio today. You’ve been a true example of what Alpha Phi Omega entails in a leader, a friend and of service and I’d be lucky if I could fill half your shoes! Thank you for everything!!! <3 your little, Janet Chang I almost didn’t pledge for Alpha Phi Omega. I was debating whether I should make it out to the rush events about a year ago. I finally gathered the energy to get up and get out of my apartment and go to the rush events. I pledged and had an awesome time doing it. Here I am now a year later as an active. Now a part of me wished I pledged a little sooner, maybe Omicron or Xi term. The only reason that I didn't pledge earlier was because I was scared to do it alone. I wish I knew better than that. Who knows what would have happened? I probably would have been more involved by now. Probably would have held an Excomm position or maybe even pledge parent. But when I really think about it, I don't regret any of it at all. If I pledged either Xi or Omicron, I would have never been paired with my big Bonnie Tran! I wouldn't have the same pledge bros as I did. I wouldn't have had the same great experience. I would not have been a part of Rho class. (best class EVARRR!!) This is for all the TAU pledges! For all the classes after TAU as well. STAY ACTIVE! What I like about the Tau pledge class is how young it is. Yes, you guys are a huge class and you probably won’t get to know everyone personally. But a big class means a lot of diversity. A lot of different ideas and a lot of energy! I feel that you guys can do a lot of good for Alpha Phi Omega. As long as you stay active, I believe you guys can make a difference! SO THE LESSON HERE IS STAY ACTIVE! I was only active for one year but that year was full of many great memories. One of the best memories was getting my little! LITTLE!! I know I haven’t been the best big in the world, but you know I love you. I know I make fun of you a lot and all that but you know its all out of love! Don’t ever hesitate to call me up! Well I’m graduating this year. Pretty scary thought. I don’t know what’s going to happen afterwards but I know that Alpha Phi Omega has helped me become a better person. That has got to help me some way in the future right? =) I’ll still come visit you guys so don’t worry! STAY ACTIVE PEOLE! ok...I’M OUT!! Peace and one love! ONE MORE THING! I can’t forgot this. I met the best person ever through Alpha Phi Omega! I am very thankful to have joined. She is a loser but she is pretty cool to me! =) - Denny Bui I MISS YOU MY FELLOW MUs (Momma & Poppa)!!! & those ditchers (biggie & little trouble) To my line, my family, my co, & my counterpart: Thanks for being the greatest people in the world, leaving me with lasting memories, and accepting me for who I am. To RhoRho: in my first few APO years, you brought me out of my shell & taught me how to survive in college and in life. & in this past year, through all the tough times, you’ve shown me what brotherhood really is. Thank you with all my heart. Dear Alpha Phi Omega, It has been a year for us knowing one another. I understand things are moving real fast. I believe you see this relationship between us is a serious deal. I just cannot take this anymore. Let me explain this to you. The friendship that I encounter in each service with my brothers, the leadership positions that give me the desire to service my brothers more, and the awesome line I am in are just not enough for me. Yes I know I am pretty difficult to please.All I want is a great little in Tau <3 Thanks. Rachel Tsai I Believe in MY BROTHERS Everyone fought, not much stood still, but everything was good, Because everyone heard and everyone knew that at a few things still stood. Our cardinal principles rung loud and clear, Everyone still heard, listened carefully, all ears. How many people actually fight for there voice to be heard? Instead of worrying about gossip, you know, “What‟s the word?” What happened to the fighting? I know it sounds bad, But look at what‟s slipping? What we once had. We keep a superficial peace, so we don‟t fight, But what happened to the magic, the voices, the Bearer of Light? I know we are big, so it‟s hard to be tight, But if no one speaks, how would anyone know where anyone stands, right? I want us to fight for what we believe in, what you feel, Or how can Excomm serve you, one leg and kneel? Because I propose something to you Rho Rho, Something that should‟ve happened long ago, I propose that we stand for what we believe in no matter what. If we are not brave, many doors may be shut, The doors of opportunity for better things in life, Like not running the world the way it has been, with a knife. I know you know what I am talking about, Because everything we do here speaks loud to me without having to shout, not having to moan, not having to pout. Because I believe in my brothers, and what they have to say, Because when things go silent there are still prices to pay. We should speak for what is right and what we think, Because we are at a turning point, what I call the brink. The brink of bringing back everyone‟s voice, what was originally everyone‟s comment, Or giving up and letting things go, and being silent. Quorum was never intended to be painful and long, It was meant for us to have a say and fix what is wrong. Something many people lose sight of, I see many eyes that open, when push comes to shove. Because I believe in my brothers, I have something to do, Speak for people that can‟t speak, like I have nothing to lose. It‟s because it is about that time, we must trust one another, like we are not others, And we will not fail, Because I believe in my brothers. - Thomas Way To Do What is Right, not Fair By Matthew Hwang Though my time in APO has been brief, I have come to realize that running and managing such large group of individuals in check is an extremely difficult process. Through the bylaws, members in APO have been given guidelines and regulations to follow. This of course, entailed a political situation in which it closely resembled that of modern debate regarding the interpretation of the U.S. Constitution. With the trend of newer classes being more “soft” or “loose,” it has been a constant debate and worry amongst the older members. However, it is something that needs to be changed. Everyone in APO, old and new, need to know that the actions as a brother and an individual is to accomplish what is right, not what is fair. What has happened in the past is important and imposing, but it cannot be the measuring stone in which “fairness” is exerted onto the brothers or pledges of the future. “We did this, so they should do it too,” is not the correct attitude when it comes to a fraternity that values brotherhood. Does this mean people should have it easy? Of course not. It merely means that each brother and potential brother must remember that the actions and judgments must be made according to each situation, not preceding events for the right purpose. History may repeat itself but it is never the same. When a brother seeks aid, we must provide aid with fairness and equality for the sake of fairness rather personal history or record. I also wanted to urge my brothers to be logical when it comes to decisions they make. Numerous actions and exceptions have been made solely on tears or personal ties; such deeds are what corrupt this fraternity. They may know you or touch your heart, but a rule broken is broken rule nonetheless. We must determine what the correct response is, but it should never be made emotionally. Vote not for pity or care but for what is truly right and fair to everyone else. We are all individuals with care and love for the fraternity, but that does not mean you have the right to do as you please as an active member. Show respect and care for other members, pledges, and anyone else you might encounter; individualism is valued but one must learn to be a collectivist to aid the group. Looking Back By Kristina Barela As a graduating senior, I know that when I look back to my college experience, the first and biggest part of it that will come to mind is this fraternity. I pledged spring quarter, Omicron, two years ago. The two years that I have spent as an active member of this fraternity have changed the person I am in numerous ways, ways I would have never expected. They taught me things I never knew I wanted to learn. It found me some of the best friends in the world. And it gave me a chance to give back through service. Personally, the following are what I am the most thankful for from being a brother of this fraternity: Tiff Lin- Very few brothers I believe were able to ever fully grasp the relationship we had with one another. She was my co Rho term as publicity chair, and through that, I began to learn even more about exceptionally talented she was when it came to anything crafty. Making posters with her were some of my favorite times together. It was often just she and I with a sheet of poster paper, markers, paint, and the best conversation. She taught me what it is to listen without judgment, keep a secret, and give others a second chance. I am so incredibly thankful to my pledge parents that they placed us in UNG together as the only two pledges that term, because if it weren’t for that, I’m not sure we would have ended up as roommates, cos, and best friends. Omi-bras. <3 The opportunity to do service- The reason I pledged to begin with. This fraternity spoils us with the chances we have to reach out to others and help them through service. I know a lot of brothers may see service as merely another req, but to me, service is such a rewarding PRIVILEGE to be in the position to give back, instead of needing that help. It is a reminder of how fortunate I am and that one person truly has influence through service. My brothers- It still amazes me the love and generosity I was shown this year, by both those I was close to and those I wasn’t. It proved to me exactly what brotherhood really is. And for that, I am eternally grateful. So to everyone, THANK YOU. - Rachel Cherng A FEW MOMENTOUS OCCASIONS FROM THE TAU EXPERIENCES OF MARISSA VILLENA (in no particular order): Finishing up big reqs for the first time. RLL (Royals Lay Low). Deep discussions on Disney princesses and what their cleaning professions would be. Making those darn stressful Royal shirts (LA is freaking sketch). Meeting my LITTLE for the first time. Interviewing Ben Quach...for the third time (haha, love you). Being named CenTAUr of the Week. Falling asleep in Environmental Psychology class with some brothers. Trying to tag my big on the interview sheet...but can't. Shoutout to my Alpha Delta chapter IC buddy: JohnJomil Richards! Speeding down the 405 from Yoshinoya to give the Royal littles their dinner before pledge meeting. Shopping with Melissa Lau. Where is Carmel? I didn't know we were supposed to give them something before retreat (lol). My group interview with like 10 pledges. My little being the "last one standing" (so proud of you, btw!). One can never have too much Fukada. Winning an icebreaker with Susan Kim. Mini fashion obsessions this term: maxi skirts, fishtail braids, and Silver Shatter over Stranger Tides. Interviewing the awesome new pledges. Viet getting his own silly string session. A single movie night with Andrew Baiady and Tiffany Tran. I miss you, Rho Boat Rhodiculous. Making crepes with Cool family (nom nom nom). Passing out water cups with Lindsay Yamauchi at the Irvine Lakes Mud Run. Realizing my little is known as "the guy with the beanie.". Shout-out to Kevin Chen: you are too nice to your family; thank you so much for everything during GBM. Making "cookies" while watching my big play LA Noire. Timing high school kids' Rube Goldberg experiments. Getting to know more of my brothers. Rho class forever. Little, you better make me proud (justkidding, you already do!). Love you, Robert "What The..." Phung! I love you too BEEGSTER, Jonathan Wang, you spoil me. SEXXXY FAMILY, ROYAL LINE forever. Reflection on Tau Term... I feel as if I've come full circle in Alpha Phi Omega from being a pledge, to an active, and then as a big. Time flies, things change, but you still have to make the best of it while being a leader, a friend, and being of service. There's no way that I could replicate my experience of being an active for the very first time. Although all good things come to an end, the memories that I've made with the friends that I've come to know and love will always remain. I'm going to miss you Big, you graduating is a piece of my college experience leaving as well. I hope that you can say that you raised me well to be an active brother. And Grand, you graduating before the year ended makes me wish that you were able to stay the entire year as an active brother so I could learn from your advice. Boy this year flew by quick. My boys, MattyK, Jero, Yagi, Kimoto, Andeezie, I only just met you guys this year, but I feel like we can kick it like we've known each other since '93. All the senior people I've met this year and gotten to know, I'm gonna miss you all. And of course my little Tammy, what can I say, can you have asked for a better Big? But seriously though, I couldn't have asked for another Little, cause regardless of what anyone says, you make me proud. Tau term has been a good one, I'm gonna have to go into future terms with low expectations 'cause I'm sure it'll be hard to top this one. And Golden Line, you are of course Sexy and the best! Sigma love always <3 Happy 2nd anniversary, omicrons! :) in spirit of our anniversary below are all 97 omicrons: aimee zhao aissa Fernandez alan nguyen alex doan an nguyen angie jin avilene Villanueva ben vu betsy robles bonnie tran bowie ho Brandon stoltz Brandon way Brandon yoneda Carl villajin Carmelita gallarado Carmen truong Carol lee Christina luu Cindy lee Clarence cabang Clemrose galang Cristan Villanueva Cynthia yue Dan troung David poon Diana park Diane jong Eddie lin Edward chu Elisa chao Eric yui Erin dong Erin tsui Gabby ng George lee Godwin tse Haylee Phillips Hazel castuciano Howard liu Jaimie otzoy Janet chang Jason ng Jeanelle kuizon Jenn dao Jeromiah huey Jetson gong Joel reyes Joie fong Kevin anglim Kevin chow Kevin fok Kevin hong Kristina Barela Lauren tanaka Lisa lac Lorraine ng Lucy li Madeline fu Maggie chuang Mark lii Meghan remedios Melissa lau Michael lee Michael yeung Michelle fong Nikita le Nikki mina Peter young Phil lee Renee kumra Ricky quach Roger le Roy chan Ryan ho Ryan lee Sandy huynh Sarah Crawford Sean cao Seon hee min Shawn ridgeway Simon huynh Stephanie kim Steven fong Steven yee Thomas way Tiffanie do Tiff lin Tiffany p tran Tiffany s tran Tong dang Tri tran Vanessa tran Vivian huang Wendy lee Wendy zhu Zaire aballi Dear Glasses Line, I la-la-la-la love you big, little, grand, and twin! I promise to never forget about all the good times we had stuffing our faces and laughing at Wesley's jokes. Twin, you better not get diabetes and die before you get a chance to pick up a little. Little, we were meant to be and I can't thank you enough for all the times you let me borrow your pin and got me ice cream from Brandywine <3 Big, you were always there to remind me when I forgot to attend an ExComm or when I signed up for service on a day I wasn't actually free. Grand, I know you won't ever read this but I'm so lucky to have you as a grand. You're always putting together line hang outs and without you, I doubt our line would be this close. The four of you combined have made my memories in APhiO and at UCI an experience worth repeating. I wish I could take our line and bring us wherever I go, but instead I will be thinking of you all while on my future endeavors. With Love, Dana Chau There‟s no way to describe how much APO has impacted my life these last two years. I wish I could stay in college longer, but I guess everyone has to grow up sometime. I want to thank everyone in this fraternity for making experience so amazing for me. It really wouldn‟t have been the same without all of you here. I know it‟ll be hard, especially with everyone always going in different directions, but I hope we all find a way to stay in touch with each other. Special Thanks to… APO Ballers… Me, David Chan, Crystal Florida, Elizabeth Yee, Andrew “Badday” Baiady, Tim Pardo, Will Roberts, Ronald Mak, Jeff Jue, Jon Revelo, Robert Lin, Vivian Tran, Howard Liu, Andrew Nguyen,& my lil Lindsay Yamauchi… It‟s been really fun playing with you fools. Don‟t forget to hit me up to play ok?!? Golden Line… the greatest family ever, thank you for being so welcoming since day one. You guys are really like my family away from home. Annie Liu, aka my first friend in Irvine… Thanks for being my first friend here and just for always being there in general. You‟re a really good friend. Howard Liu, aka teammate… You‟re the one who got me into APO to begin with. Thanks man. And thanks for being the greatest teammate ever. I got 3 IM titles with you and they were..Legend…..(wait for it……)……. DARY! To the GREATEST DIRECT LINE IN GOLDEN LINE..BALLER LINE!!! Jeromiah Huey, aka uncle… thanks for bringing the laughs hahaha.. The line wouldn‟t be the same without you! Elizabeth Yee, aka Liz, aka cuz… I love your spirit and it might not seem like it..but I love your crazyness too. I‟m glad we got a chance to get close. Thanks for keeping me in check. Appreciate it cuz! Continue to be your usual crazy self. Don‟t ever change! Erin Tsui, aka big… I‟m as grateful today as I was at revealing that you‟re my big. After meeting in our interview, I was stressing out sooo bad on whether or not I‟d get you as a big. On the day of revealing, you were the first person I ran to. Fast forward to now and it‟s been two years and a buttload of memories. Thank you for being my big <3 Thomas Lu, aka Grand… I‟m sorry I‟m graduating. The timing sucks. But I expect really good things out of you in and out of APO. Don‟t forget, just because I‟m graduating, I‟m still your grand. Don‟t forget you promised to win me a IM championship hahah.. And take it easy on the Round Table Pizza please? ;) And most importantly… Lindsay Yamauchi, aka lil, aka teammate… During Rho term, two weeks before revealing, I had already started the process of stressing out over whether or not I‟d get you and at that point I had talked to you for maybe 15 minutes? I guess I just had that gut feeling it‟d be a great match and I was right as usual. I was so happy when I found out I got you. Because of me and you, Baller Line was formed and I think with the addition of Thomas Lu, it‟s getting even stronger. Our big/lil relationship and our friendship reached places I never would have imagined and hope it continues. I‟m sorry we couldn‟t close out this quarter with one more IM championship together, but hey… We already have two, so I guess we can let someone else have a crack at being the champs right? ;) Thank you not just for being my lil, but just for being you. <3 LITTLE! Can’t wait till next term when you’re done with pledging and we can just hang out! I’m so proud of all that you’ve done this quarter as president and just being an amazing person. I couldn’t ask for a better little. I hope you come to love Alpha Phi Omega as much as your big and grand. Thank you Tau Pops & Mama! For my twin too. He’s fun to be around and I can’t wait to get to know him better too. And my Rho Mamas of course for my big. (: <3, Sameena <3 Het’s Line TAO LINE COOL FAMILY (: Every term, the interview process takes place with a set of new pledges. While everyone has their own view on what an “interview” represents for them, the interview is simply a way for me to get to know you and vice versa. For the past five terms, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know you all, and hopefully, at the least, being a part of your lives. Sorry I didn’t get to meet everyone from Sigma and Tau terms! Anyways, at the end of each interview, I ask two questions: The first one is, “What’s your favorite class you’ve taken?” As someone who enjoys learning new things, I’m curious if people have taken the time to take classes that interest them. Here’s a list, if you’re curious, of some classes that people have liked because of the material or of the teacher: intro classes in music, linguistics, anthropology, and dance; History of Jazz and Beatles and the 60s; soc sci classes such as gangs; and studio and performance art. As for me, I would highly recommend taking Dance 14, or Social Dance. The second, more important, question I ask is, “If you could do anything, what would you do?” From travelling the world to having world peace, robbing a bank to having a superpower, I’ve heard numerous responses, and I’d like to share the ones that were most unique to me: Go to the edge of an island and see the clear blue oceans of Australia - Gabby Ng, Omicron Capture a photograph worthy to win the Nobel Prize - Stephanie Son, Tau End world hunger through non-profit organizations - Jane Chang, Tau Make people aware of the problems of those in lesser countries - Evelina Vu, Rho Find her soulmate - Annie Liu (Pi/Rho) Open a free clinic to provide services for his community - Steven Yeung, Tau Climb the seven summits, the highest peaks of each continent - Joyce Lee, Pi Some are simple, some are profound, and some are difficult. Either way, I wanted to showcase some of your fellow brothers who aspire to do more of what is regularly done, to follow their most ambitious dreams, and set out to accomplish them whether simple or near impossible. With that said, it’s simply a matter of doing what you are genuinely excited to do, of doing what you love. I’m truly humbled to be surrounded by all of you. – Jonathan David, Xi To Rho Class: Happy Anniversary, Rho Class!!!! WE MADE IT! I can’t believe it has already been a year! I am proud to be a part of this class and forever will be. Let’s stay strong and show the other classes what the Rho’s are made of. Rho class forever! :) To Royals: You know, we are the best line ever! Haha I am so glad to be placed in this family. It’s always so much fun to be around you guys. =D Royals Lay Low! :D - Viet Nguyen For my big who requested that I make a dedication to him: M ajor flirt A lways cranky when he doesn't nap T hinks he can come up with good jokes T he best big ever (: I love you big, little, grand, golden, rhos, sexy, muffin taups, rhoad rage, and aphio! <3 Monica Hello APhiO! Sadly, this is my last term before I graduate. I know, I know … this is very sad . Before my departure, I would like to thank everyone who made my college experience fun, exciting and memorable. Here is a list of a few people who made UCI & Alpha Phi Omega an enjoyable experience: Michelle Fong: Thanks for being a great co Rho term. I will look back on our Historian videos and laugh about our jokes. Moreover, I will never forget the random events that occurred in our house. I will miss cooking, laughing and watching Hulu with you. Please stick around! Matt & Kim: Room-Matt, you are clean for a boy. Thanks for not stinking up the bathroom and hanging out with me in the hallway. Also, keep working on your puns Parth: Little that is bigger than me … thanks for taking care of your big! I’m sure everyone appreciates the hard work you put into the fraternity. You will be a GREAT leader! Justine: Keep up your bubbly spirit! You are full of personality and spunk. Teach future APO pledges/actives how to have fun. Annie Kim & Jane Chang: Hello grandies! Keep an eye on your big, Parthy. You girls are cute and silly. Annie, thanks for making me laugh with your Parth teasing. Jane, make the family proud Thanks Omicrons, Tzyys, Kimoto house’s regulars, people I talk to at the tents & ALL OF APO! I know I forgot a good number of you guys. I apologize for that, but please know that I appreciate EVERY single person I met in Alpha Phi Omega. You kids be good and thanks for an amazing experience. jenndao Sup, I feel sad just writing this right now because I’m thinking about all those that are about to leave. So I’m just gonna talk bout the seniors. Ok I’m just gonna get into it. There’s no order to this (after Matt). Excuse my slang and shortened English. My Main Boy, My 4-3-2, My fellow Lord of I-Town, My bro, Matthew Dong-Hui Kim: I’m gonna just be straight up. I’ma miss you lik no other and next year just aint’t gonna be the same at all. This year was such a blast cus I kicked it wit you so much man. Like freal. You would always be down for whatever and we just click man. Like burgers and fries, we’re like that! I can’t really put my feelings into words, but just know I’ma miss you a lot and you are a big piece of my college experience. BRO SUMMER! Love you dude, freal. The Bro-est Chick I know, Jenn Dao: One of the coolest, funniest, dopest chicks I know. I’m so glad I got to know you this year. You really are just one of the guys and I think its awesome. I’m lucky I have someone to laugh at dumb stuff about. When you laugh, I laugh. And you have exquisite taste in music. I’ma miss you man! My Main President. Vanessa Tran: The realest president I know. Real talk only. I’m glad I got to know you better this year too. You’re someone I can just talk to about anything and everything. Like toenails, yeugh. You’re just a great friend. Even if you move back to Jose, I’ma still talk to you as if you’re down here. Freal Real talk! The one, The only, Suz Kim: Freal, Suz, you’re really one of a kind. There’s lik no one I kno that’s even remotely similar to you. I really wish I can express my feelings through words as well as you can. That’s why I enjoy talking to you, I feel like I’m hearing what you’re hearts sayin. I’m SUPER glad we talked more this year. I feel like you’re someone I can trust off the back and expect to be there. And your laugh’s hilarious. The nicest, sincerest, and best guilt-tripper I know Annie Liu: I feel like I can talk to you about anything too and that I’ll always have an unbiased and fair response. You’re so nice and fair; I don’t even know what to say sometimes. It’s unreal sometimes how righteous you can be. You’re always fun to be around and my cars always open to you. I hope you’re futures super bright, cus you definitely deserve it! The Little Nephew, Jason Lee I know you always mean well, even tho it sometimes it doesn’t seem like it. I like how u crack jokes that are corny. I appreciate the effort. You’re always there if someone needs help. You’re a good guy that deserves whatever you work for. Best of luck BRO! LOVE YOU GUYS! Jero In Loving Memory of You will be in our hearts forever May you Rest in Peace Hi bubbly bubbles! We just wanted to say congrats on pledging! :) we love u girls! We love you MUFFIN TAUPS (: - Jero& Monica <3 aimee & steph :) Hey Tauer Rangers!!! You guys have come a long way! We are so proud of all you! Don't forget about us!! <3, Your Zordons Kae Neth & Lindsay Yea!!! NINJA STORM! BEST TAU TRIBE EVER!!!!!!! MUCH LOVE YOUR TRIBE LEADERS (not zordons! Lol), Jocelyn & Maryann P.S. Remember we're always here for you! Don't forget us! WHATSUP TAUrodactyls!? It’s been such a long time since we walked into the room to greet you guys. Remember how we were the FIRST ones to want TAUranasarus? But in the end TAUrodactyls is wayyyyy better. We actually like TriceriTAUPS too. We want to say that we are so proud to be the Zordon of such a great group. You guys did well and you all will be great brothers. We are still looking forward to going out and eating and hanging out with you guys, so let us know when you are FREE! Always know that you can come to us for anything because we are so caring and giving :]. Remember, you may have gotten your bigs, but we’ll still always be your Zordons! Good luck with everything and we’ll definitely see you guys around. Don’t forget to say hi :]! - Jon & Josh HELLOO TAU-OOIT & BOOT IT! So, Dana, Huong, Jennifer, Jeremy, & Julie, we are so proud of you guys for getting this far! Just a few more weeks and you'll become active brothers! Although the quarter is almost over and summer is almost here, we just want you guys to know that we'll always be here for you guys! Look forward to fall quarter because we'll definitely try to have wayyy more hangouts! =) Anyways, good luck on the rest of your interviews and we'll be there for you all when you guys turn in those sheets! Your zordons, Michael & Kimberly Dear 7TAU11, I'm sincerely grateful for each and every one of you guys in my tribe! Katherine, Maria, Lernni, Karen, Pedro, Brandon, and Eric.. don't forget about the good times you had eating the party bags I packed for your pledge meetings :) Your Zordons, Dana and Brian Hey Tau-Rex rangers!! We just wanted to say that we were very happy to be your tau tribe leaders and that you guys are the best tau-er rangers out there! If you guys ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask one of us for help. Hopefully your pledging process has been a very memorable and fun experience. We're sorry we couldn't hang out as much, but we hope that even after pledging is over, we can still talk and hang out with each other. You all worked very hard to finish your reqs and congrats on crossing!!! :) Love, Vivian Tran and Patrick Manalo To our Laffy Tauffy Tribe: Vania, Diane, Kenneth, Ben, Christhian, Jane, & Joycesorry we weren't around to watch you guys grow throughout the pledging process, but we certainly hope that you all had a memorable experience and continue to enjoy what APO has to offer. If any of you ever need anything, let us know! Laffy Tauffy...NOMNOMNOM!! Hello TAU-toros, Even though we never got to hang out much bringing you guys food was great-short-bonding time I hope you guys enjoyed the snacks and pledging! Sh**s getting real, now that you are well on your way to becoming actives . Don’t forget that we will always be your ZORDONS!<3 Don’t hesitate to text or facebook us now that you have your bigs…and no real need for us …..LOL but yea hope you see you little ones around. LOVE YOU GUYS!! YOUR FAVORITE (:P) ZORDON, Caroline Hua (RHO<3 rho rhoyo boat) Hey Tautoros! You guys are almost there and I know Caroline and I can’t be anymore proud. I know we haven’t really had the hangout that we promised yet (it’s coming soon!) but I can’t wait to see you guys as active brothers. I hope that the pledging experience was what you guys hoped for and more. We love you lots and lots and lot and lots!!!!! <33 Don’t forget our TAU tribes even after you cross, always be there for each other. Kevin Hong (“Let’s get it on” Omicron) P.S. little ones swipe us in to Pippin’s :P Hi Tau AWESOME POSSOM kiddoz"... It has been a nice term knowing you guys. Even though we haven't had our official hang out yet but hopefully we will SOON and get to know each other better. lolz. Anyways, good luck with the rest of pledging. It's almost the end of the term and get those interviews done. You guys can do it!!!! P.S. Don't be awkward around us after this. =) Haaarroooo AWESOME POSSUMS!! I am just oh sooooo very proud of each of you! Yay for no one DPing! I'm really thankful to have you as my Tau Tribe...so thanks. HAHA. I hope you had an amaaaazing pledging experience! Sorry for the awkward luncheon and the late goodies at meeting. There are more to come;) I know you got your bigs and famsies already, but you better not forget about me! If you ever need anything or just wanna hang out, gimme a call. Let’s play! <3<3<3 P.S. My photoshop skills suck. Don’t laugh...too much. <3 Naomi and Kimmy McFong & Jenn Dao would like to make a shout out to our TAUer Rangers: TAU Infinity & Beyond Kenneth Tan, Holly Qiu, Julia Percy, Melanie Dang, & Allan Truong. It’s MORPHIN’ TIME To our Laffy Tauffy Tribe: Vania, Diane, Kenneth, Ben, Christhian, Jane, & Joyce-sorry we weren't around to watch you guys grow throughout the pledging process, but we certainly hope that you all had a memorable experience and continue to enjoy what APO has to offer. If any of you ever need anything, let us know! Laffy Tauffy...NOMNOMNOM!! HELLO Tau Class! Well I want to start off by saying Thank You for being such an awesome pledge class! All of you have made every moment of my pledge experience the best it could possibly be and I am so happy to be your pledge bro! I hope that every single one of you BEEZYS stay active not just because it’s a requirement or because it looks good on a résume, but because you want to make more memories with your fellow pledge bros. Almost 8 weeks ago most of us (including me) did the Trustwalk for the first time and had NO idea whose hand was on their shoulder. Today we hangout and talk to each other like we’ve been friends since elementary school. Before pledging I would do homework during my long hours of boredom and sleep late at 10pm. Now I live out at the tents laughing with all of you and stay out late until 2am. Pledging has changed my life in a lot of ways and you guys have made it a positive experience. I hope that in the future that if you are in ever need of anything or looking for someone to kick it with, that you will come find me! Sexy Ung? Oh man how did this happen? I didn’t think I was THAT dirty but I guess not! I’m glad to be in Ung even though it seems most of the time all we do is take a sip of the HATERADE. But even though we hung out only once at as whole family, I think I can still say I love you guys and can’t wait to make more memories!! To my Big, Aivi ngo Oh my goodness, this BEEZY right here. Thank you for being really supportive of me throughout my pledging process. I’m really happy that I got you as my Big and I hope that we will be able to hang out A LOT in the future. Your always so hyper and happy and I don’t think I can handle so much! That’s why I get to be mean to you all the time. Even Grandmaster Derek thinks it is a legitimate excuse. Thank you for staying positive when I was down and thank you for just being who you are. I couldn’t have anyone else as a Big and I’m grateful to have met you for those 5 minutes at Jack-in-theBox on Pinning Night. To APO – Rho Rho Thank you for changing my life in so many positive ways. I will never forget the experience I have had so far. I’m really excited to make new memories that will never be erased from my tiny head. You all helped me understand what it is to be a leader and what it is to be a friend. I have 3 years left to spend time here at UCI and it already feels like it isn’t enough. “Rho Rho, You Know!” With Love, Zachary Chan A.K.A BallZach Hellooo BIG!!! I just wanted to say that I’M SOO HAPPY YOU’RE MY BIGG I don’t know what to really say right now, but I’m just really really really really happy that you were the one who was chosen to be my big! And I know that we were put together for a reason and I can see why. I know you keep saying that you’re sorry for being soo busy, but its all good because once summer rolls around then we are going to hang out ALL THE TIME!! Like you said on my cookie bag, we are going to get SICK OF EACH OTHER lol soo yeahh be ready for that! And also I wanted to say CONGRATS for graduating! I know you’re gonna do well on your LSATs because you have been studying soo much for them soo don’t worry!! <3 you BIGG And <3 for my SKYLINE FAM! You guys are seriously crazy and I’m soo excited to get to know you all Much Love, Erika ZOT ALERT !! Student kidnapping took place at tents yesterday. Don’t worry. She woke up. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHHAH. Oh man. I am so funny. Thanks guys for bearing with me and pretending to laugh once in a while at my lame jokes in and out of meetings. Thanks also to random actives who supplied me with some of my jokes (Alan Nguyen). Once in a while I admit that I do wish I had not pledged so soon, but then I remember all the wonderful brothers I’ve made and the best big ever(Talkin ‘bout you Jeff Jue) I got by pledging Tau term and I cannot imagine it any other way. I love you guys haha. Big, I admire you so much. You really have your shit together and it’s down right inspiring. I have always wanted a big brother and it sucks I had to wait like 19 years to get one, but it was worth it ya big poop. A lotta love also to matt and susan, you guys are a great team and I don’t think you guys could have done anything better. Deucesss, makes Jillian Plexcomm RecSec. SHOUTOUT TO: Ana, my Big-in-law, she makes all the stuff Big cute and has always been super sweet to me (: thanks !! Hey everyone! It’s ! First I want to give a shoutout to TAU CLASS! Every single one of you guys are very special in your own way and to me. It was nice getting to know all of you. When I am around you guys, I actually feel like I’m important. You all encourage me to be a better and more open person. I’m glad everyone here pledged, and even when we cross, we will be pbros forever! This experience is unforgettable, and has set the tone for the rest of my years of college to come. Tau class all will always hold a special place in my heart. LOVE YOU GUYS <3. And another shoutout to our PARENTS, matt and suz! I couldn’t ask for better parents, and I’m sure everyone can say the same. It shows that you both genuinely care for every one of us! You both make an effort to talk to us; you always make me laugh and feel happy . We’ll miss you guys when you graduate! Don’t every forget us! Next shoutout goes to MY CO, Jessica Nguyen! When I first met you, I didn’t know you were going to drill me so hard! I was intimidated at first, but when I got to know you more… I was still intimidated! But I appreciate everything you’ve done for me: coordinating the fundraisers, being my friend, and teaching me to be a leader. I’ll miss you co! Let’s hang more! LAST shoutout goes to my BIG, NOREEN! I’m so glad I got paired with you! You are so nice, funny, and comfortable to be around! I hope we can become even closer in the years to come. I do my best to be the best little ever . ALSO, I love JERSEY! Love you fam <3. To my amazing down to earth big!! I know you will probably hate me for having this in the newsletter, but that is ok! I love how I can joke around with you about this, but now you can joke around how I'm your "little Booty drop" LOL. Or at least that is what the rest of the pledge class and active body thinks. But anyways, thanks for being an amazing Big! I know we are going to have fun this summer :D -Little! To Tau Class, WE’RE ALMOST DONE!! These past 10 weeks have gone by so fast, and each and every one of you have made pledging the best experience of my life. Sleepless nights at showcase practice, hanging out at tents, GBM’s, pledge meetings. fellowships, skipping classes, lunch dates, “study” groups that turn into camwhoring sessions, etc etc .I’m losing sleep, weight, GPA points, but it’s all been worth it. I would not trade all the memories I’ve made in the past two months for anything! Please please please after we cross, don’t forget that we are forever Tau Class. We will definitely hang out even more once ALL OF US cross at activation TAUgether!! To 엄마 and 아빠, Thanks for working so hard for all your kids! We all know how much you are putting into being pledge parents and just know that we really do appreciate everything. Thanks for putting up with my busy schedule and Susan for helping me through that stressful night. Honestly, I could not have imagined pledging with any other parents. And you’re both Korean, obviously the best people in the world 대한민국!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! To Fams, I’m so glad I got placed into skyline!! I really wish I could have gone to Revealing so I could get to know each of you better, but we will definitely hang out after crossing, and I will always make time for my family!! To Psuedo Psuedo Big? Psuedo Grand? wth do i call you? lol why didn’t we hang out earlier? and why do you keep ignoring me? :) To the BEST BIG IN THE WORLD, I could not have been paired up with a better big. You are everything I asked for, and more. I love how we can laugh at the same things, and even though people will be looking at us like WTF (Pedro), we don’t care, we’ll just make more jokes. I’m sorry that I’ve been so busy with pledging and all my other stuff and that we haven’t gotten to hang out together as much as we would like, and that I am tired 24/7. I just want you to know that you are my motivation to push through this sprint to the finish and after I cross, I’m gonna live up to my status as best little evarrr. wait and see ;) P.S. Thanks for all the food btw, that’s honestly how I’ve been surviving these past couple of weeks! See you all at Activation, Steve Jang BY: Joshua Montemayor One of the beauties of being in Alpha Phi Omega is the fact how each and every person is welcomed into a family. And I’m not talking about just the “Pledge-Class Family” or the entirety of the Fraternity as a whole: it gets way more intimate than that. As a Brother of APO, I have been welcomed into numerous, smaller families within the Fraternity (Big & Pseudo Fam, Tao-Tau Fam, & Subway Fam). Each family has a unique difference, purpose, and meaning. My Big & Pseudo Fam is there to guide me. My Tao-Tau Fam is there to provide a shoulder to lean on or spontaneous fun with. My Subway Fam was accidentally formed when I started working at Subway and now, even when I go to work, I am surrounded by the presence of APO love. In all, APO allows our personalities to develop within these families, because in whatever shape or form, there are always people within the Fraternity that will share a common interest or APO allows our personalities to develop within these families, because in whatever shape or form, there are always people within the Fraternity that will share a common interest or similarity with us. A family helps us grow as a person and even though I’ve only gotten to know these people within the past few months, I have felt extremely accepted and grateful that I can call them my Brothers since they have helped me to grow in many different ways. THANK YOU! TO TAU CLASS: I’m so glad I decided to pledge Rho Rho APO. In this short quarter, I’ve been able to meet so many new friends, make memories with all of you, and grow as a person. I’ve learned so much. And now, for some shout-outs: Chilly! The first people I met; and we’ve become so close. I love you guys. My Tau Tribe, Minions! I’m sorry I ditched the first hangout, but just know that being put into tribes made me feel like I was a part of something great within Tau. My big, Emily Chang! Clearly, you’re the best. I will never forget that the first thing you did was run up to me + hug me + tackle me to the ground + spray me with a water gun before I even knew your name. Oh, and sorry for stressing you out! Gangsta Line! Thanks for taking me in; I know we have many more fun times ahead. And of course, Tau Class! I’ve gotten to know so many of you, and I can’t wait to know all of you even more. Don’t forget: we ride tau-gether, we die tau-gether. It makes me laugh (just kidding, I really mean cry) when I think that I can become someone’s friend because of something random- having the same name as someone, looking like someone (I don’t see it, you all are racist), being Vietnamese, liking the same girl, having the same class, being in the same family, coming from the same hometown, sitting next to someone one day, and the list goes on forever… I finally feel like I belong. I know that there will be so many more memories to make. Brian Le Tau Class That’s Whatsuup!! Well, I never thought I’d actually pledge for a fraternity...but as my pledging process comes to an end, I can’t help but think of all the memories. Pledging for Alpha Phi Omega has definitely been one of my greatest decisions. The whole experience of meeting a new group of people and helping out the community and nation with service has been a memorable experience. I’d like to thank the whole Tau Class for being such a great pledge class. Meeting all of you was an awesome experience and I’d like to thank Dana Jacinto for being such a great friend. If it weren’t her I probably wouldn’t have gone through the whole pledging process and I’m glad we became better friends through Alpha Phi Omega. The greatest moment during pledging was the day of revealing. Tracy Lui! She’s my Big (Master)! I’d like to thank her for being such a great Big. Thanks for putting in the effort to get to know me and spending so much time with me. I know you act tough on the outside, and people always tell me they’re sorry I have you as a Big but I know you’re a softy inside and you’re definitely the ideal Big I really wanted. On that note, I’d never have been chosen to have Tracy as my Big without the help of my pledge parents, Susan and Matt Kim. Thanks for being great pledge parents and placing me in the [sexy] LEGENDARY line!! Late night pledge meetings, GBMs, Excomm, retreat, showcase, 100% service, 100% fellowship, 65% IC event, 7 fellowships, 20 hours of service in 5 categories, 150+ interviews- those were only part of our reqs. Oh wait, but there’s more! There are random study sessions, LolliTime, late night runs to get food, etc. All fun, memorable yet time consuming events that we haven’t prepared for when we heard our reqs. Remember when it was day one and we were sitting in RH 104 just listening to our mom and dad go on and on about our reqs? I admit- I was scared, but weren’t we all? And I definitely didn’t understand when actives went on and said that they would re-pledge if they had the chance. But now I understand. On the night of pinning, dad went around to everyone and kept repeating the fact that “pledging will sooo fun, pledging will be one of the best part of your college experience.” (Something along the lines of that) I just kept nodding and smiling. I’ve heard from my friends from other chapters how fun pledging has been for them, but they warned me about the gigantic pledge class. I was excited, but not really knowing what to expect. And indeed, it wasn’t at all what I expected- it was a million times more fun that I thought it would be, and trust me- I already did have high expectations! In the beginning of pledging, I remembered that it was a bit awks. I had no idea what “interviews” were and everyone at the tents was a stranger. Now? I can’t say the same thing. Whenever I go out to the tents, I enjoy doing interviews so much and I love how I can just stay there and chat with whomever I like because there are no more strangers. These strangers have already been my best friends in such a short period of time. These kids are the ones that I can randomly vent to, call up to eat, hangout, study, etc. There has been late nights where it was right before my midterm or the day before homework is due where my pbros are my LIFE SAVERS. They helped me cram for my midterm, help me with homework, and literally teach me all the basic concepts that I must understand before. Without you guys, I would’ve been screwed, for real. But yes, the study sessions are unforgettable because “studying”… has never been THIS fun. Also service has never been so exciting because we go and hunt for freebies together after the event. Also, learning to dance for the first time in my life and feeling so behind because the dance moves are pretty hard. Hell week isn’t so much of Hell because we’re all in this TAU-gether! I don’t think in my life, I have ever been so stressed out yet had so much time at the very same time. I am so thankful for all the memories that I’ve received throughout pledging. Although nights were restless, I wouldn’t mind doing it again. I am so thankful for my Tau tribe the Tau-toros with my amazing Zordons- Kevin Hong and Caroline Hua. Also for all the actives for always coming out to the tents and making the interviews so interesting and something to look forward to doing every day! Thank you to Plexcomm for working oh so hard on every possible aspect because you guys have done an amazing job for Tau class. You guys have made it legendary and oh hey- banquet on a boat, that’s what’s up! But yeah, none of this would’ve been the same however if it wasn’t for our amazing pledge parents Matt and Susan Kim. You guys have worked so hard and I have no idea how you guys do what you guys do but THANK YOU SO MUCH! Lastly to my big Kevin Chen! Thank you so much for being such a wonderful big. I know that you’re always busy with work, Dance Comp., and just school in general. You are really my role model cause even though you don’t get to sleep a lot, and can be super stressed out, you still manage to pull through and smile. Thank you so much for making time for me because just the little things you do most definitely means the world to me! The notes and decorations you made for me brightens up my day in an instant. I don’t know if this is weird or not but definitely whenever I get to see you or hang out with you, I get so excited and I’m so happy to do so. In the beginning, when everyone found out that my big was you, they were all happy for me and told me how lucky I was. I definitely believe that I am very lucky, because I wouldn’t want another big! Thank you for all that you have done for me, and I look forward to spending more and more time with you and our SexXxy Royals! Also with my amazing direct line (with my grand Julie Pham and my G2 Jeff Su)! Thanks for also giving me so much pseudos cause you want to make sure that I feel loved. I love my pseudos- Elizabeth Yee, Katherine Lee, Will Roberts, and Stephanie Sarmiento (and my 2/5 pseudo Tim Pardo.) I love you so much big even though you shot me straight in the face with your water gun on revealing!<3 No matter what, always remember we’re all in this TAU-gether<3 Thanks so much for the memories! Melody Wong :) Hey TAU class!!!! On behalf of Edward and me we would just like to say thanks to all of you guys! Retreat would not have been the same without you guys. Thanks for all being there and listening to us and for being willing to play all the games! We hope you guys all had fun and enjoyed your night. We stressed a loottt and kept hoping to make it the best night we could for all of you guys and now that it’s over I’m actually kind of sad. There are a couple people we’d like to give special thanks to for all the extra work they put into retreat! Firstly, Sabrina Oei, we could not have done this without you! Seriously thank you for everything! You literally saved our butts and you were there throughout the whole night helping out as well. Secondly, we’d like to thank our wonderful committee! In no particular order, Julie Yan, Alvin Boado, Dillon Gee, Carolyn Pham, Melanie Dang, Tammy Truong, Robert Phung (sorry if I forgot anyone!). You guys helped us with EVERYTHING from planning, to running the night with us thanks for always having our backs. Thirdly, we’d like to say thanks to Jeremy Yu, for changing his flight for us and Jessica Nguyen and Diane Vu for being troopers and staying through the night even with their curfews! Lastly, we’d like to thank everyone again! You guys don’t understand how much you’ve all helped us. Giving swipes, driving, talking to us when we were stressed, being there on the night of, just everything. We really couldn’t have done this without you! Sincerely, Robert Zhou Dear Ly Line, I wanted to thank you for being a wonderful family- except for the boys who are always so mean to me :P I could not have asked for a better big- someone who is so involved and always down to help and most importantly, a man who’s wisdom astounds me! We will all be SUBEEZYs for life! Edward Lin Next I would like to thank the best class ever- TAU class! Thanks to you guys, I have some amazing memories like Zach catching and sharing his crabs… I must also thank my unofficial co’sBrian Le and Joe Hsieh for sticking through all of Banquet’s ups and downs! You guys rock!! The friendship and brotherhood of the fraternity astounds me! I would never have expected that people could be so wonderful and so much fun. Thank you for giving me a wonderful insight and opportunity. We better still get together for decades in the future, even if it is to show-off how cool Taus are! Remember that we will always have each others backs through thick and thin I love all of you, Astrid Shout out to my Big Phil (Pi) Lee and my twin Astrid Lugar! Thank you for everything you have done for me this term. I hope we get to have more adventures together. Love ya Big! Love ya Twin! <3 Angela Perez PreREVEALING Hello Tau Class Pbros~ Can you guys believe a quarter has already passed and we’re almost done with pledging? I’m sure we all had our moments of frustration during this process; such as hunting down interviews at the tents and at cha nights, studying for weekly pledge quizzes, missing or failing midterms and assignments or classes because of the long showcase practices that ended at 4:00 or 5:00 in the morning, and simply worrying about our requirements while trying to balance it with school in general. However, we should ask ourselves… was it worth it? I know for me, it was. I am really glad I chose to pledge for Alpha Phi Omega. My life was quite boring and unexciting before I joined APO because I was never involved or committed to anything on campus. All I did was go to class and go back home. After joining APO, I don’t remember ever being so busy or exhausted in my life before. I met so many different people in such a short amount of time and I’m really grateful to each and every person I met because they have taught me to see things in so many different perspectives. I hope the bonds we made will stay strong and we will be the class that makes history in APO Rho Rho! A few shout out to my Big, Kathy Truong! For being one of the sweetest person I have ever met, and also everyone else in my Skyline family! I also want to thank Matt and Susan, our Pledge Parents, for giving so much and inspiring all of us to be better people and to do more for the fraternity. I know you guys will have bright futures ahead of you. You guys are the best pledge parents and will never be forgotten! To everyone I have met through pledging – I’m really glad to have met each and every one of you, you all have taught me so much and I hope we share many more memories together. And to the people I already knew before pledging APO, I love you guys even more and I’m glad we’ve become closer and that we now share a new bond in APO. A special shout out to the people who did dance for the showcase: Good job all of us! That entire week where we all stayed up practicing for the dances and working so hard and not going home until 4:00 a.m. or later and turning practically nocturnal… it was quite an experience to share with you all. I hope we can all do dance comp together! And lastly, of course, TAU CLASS!!!! May we stay strong forever. <3 Joyce Chang
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