Omega Chapters: Grace

bacalapristi
Apr 14
3 min read

Updated: Apr 21

Omega Chapters is a Blog series from your Alum sisters at Sigma Psi Sigma. This month we're focusing on the transition of graduating college and transitioning to life with no classes, no finals, no chapter meetings! No toxic positivity allowed and no humble brags. Shameless brags are perfectly fine! The goal is to connect and inspire.

Got a story to share? Got a sister who I should chat with? Email us at wsu.axo.alumnae@gmail.com

Young Alumna: Grace Van Zandt

The past year has been full of growth, reflection and change since graduating with my B.A. in Political Science (Pre-Law) in May of 2024 from Washington State University.

Success Drives Questions

Following graduation, I was offered the opportunity to transition from being an intern on a gubernatorial campaign to becoming a full-time staff member. After starting this role, I started questioning if I really deserved or was qualified for this job. I remember thinking, Why me? Did they make a mistake? Am I really qualified for this? I brushed off my hard work and told myself I just got lucky. What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was dealing with imposter syndrome.

Slowly—through time, support, and a lot of self-reflection—I began to build confidence in my abilities. Positive feedback from my team and seeing the tangible impact of my work allowed me to start trusting my abilities. Conversations with mentors and coworkers who had once felt the same reminded me I wasn’t alone. If you were hired, it was for a reason—never forget that.

Sacrifices Start Early

Even as my career and many aspects of my life were flourishing, life still was not perfect. Working on the campaign meant making sacrifices—missing out on summer trips and weekends and even spending my 21st birthday in the office. On top of the long hours and fast pace, I was also in the middle of applying to law school. That left very little time for myself, my loved ones, or even just to breathe.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this year is that even when you get exactly what you’ve been working toward, life still won’t be perfect—and that’s okay. The key is figuring out what’s worth sacrificing for and checking in with yourself often.

Ms. Van Zandt!

After campaign season wrapped up in November, I finally had the chance to slow down. I spent the holidays with family, finished my law school applications, and took time to reflect on what I needed before jumping into the next chapter. Instead of diving right into another full-time role, I decided to focus on my mental health and start substitute teaching. This break has been such a refreshing and joyful shift. It reminded me of who I am outside of the constant grind and helped me reconnect with my “why.”

Not Just 4 Years

Throughout all of this, I’ve stayed close with many of my Alpha Chi Omega sisters, and they’ve been some of my biggest supporters through the highs and lows. This summer, I’ll be standing by my Big—Brooke, the person who first led me to AXO—as a bridesmaid in her wedding. It’s a beautiful full-circle moment to celebrate this next chapter of her life alongside her and another one of our sisters. The bonds Alpha Chi Omega gave me are lifelong, and I’m endlessly grateful for them.

The Future is Bright

Next, I’ll be starting law school this fall (still finalizing where!), and I’m excited to begin this next chapter. Wherever you are in your journey, take it all in—every stage, every moment. You’ll never be in that exact place again. Make memories. Take chances. Laugh a little louder. Trust in yourself and your abilities. And remember, your sisters will always be cheering you on, wherever life takes you.

If you ever find yourself curious about politics, the legal field, or just want someone to talk to about post-grad life, I am always available!

LITB! ❤️💚

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-van-zandt-6a7b6829a/

Editors Note: A great way to stay connected is to become a member of the alumnae chapter for WSU AXO Alums! Sigma Psi Sigma - Only $20 a year and with events in Greater Seattle Area, Tacoma, Spokane, Portland, Greater Phoenix, and more! Join or Renew Now