Kylan Darnell Steps Back from Bama Rush
Kylan Darnell, who gained widespread fame for her engaging OOTD and GRWM videos during her first rush week at the University of Alabama, recently shared her thoughts on the challenging experience of being in a sorority. In a candid interview with PEOPLE, she also provided some unexpected guidance for those looking to join a sorority this fall.
Key Points to Remember:
- Following her TikTok announcement about stepping back from the Bama Rush this year, Kylan opened up about her time spent in a sorority.
- As her younger sister Izzy goes through recruitment, Kylan explains her reasons for pausing.
- She shares insightful advice aimed at future sorority recruits at the University of Alabama.
Just as things ramped up for sorority recruitment at Alabama, Kylan took to her TikTok to announce her decision to take a step back from participating during her senior year. This move is particularly notable as she is famously known as the “Queen of Bama Rush” after becoming an online sensation with her recruitment content back in 2022.
Kylan, a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, created a delightful online presence around her experiences in college and Greek life, often brightening followers’ days with her signature cheerful greetings.
Yet, she’s now revealing that the struggle of being a public figure, especially during the pressures of recruitment, has had a significant impact on her well-being. “I’ve been mentally struggling with Rush,” she admitted. “There’s a ton of pressure, and everyone is watching. So, I decided to take a little three-day break to gather myself and feel better—it can be tough when your life is so public.”
Looking back at her sophomore and junior years, Kylan recalls a time when she loved being part of her sorority and enjoyed sharing her experiences online. However, recent challenges have made her feel like acting joyful and well-adjusted online would be disingenuous.
“It was amazing to share another side of sorority life,” she tells PEOPLE. “But right now, dealing with issues related to my chapter and the social media surrounding it feels unfair. Instead, I decided it wasn’t right for me to go all out and pretend there’s nothing wrong.”
Taking that step back was emotionally tough for Kylan, especially arriving just before recruitment. She previously posted excitement-filled videos from “Work Week,” the preparatory time leading up to the recruitment festivities.
Describing the pressure amplified by their online presence, Kylan explained her choice to step back: “There’s just a lot going on online between me and my sister. It has been hard for both of us.”
Housekeeping advice for New Members:
Noting the shifts in the sorority experience due to social media, Kylan warns potential new members against the pressure to post updates. “To all the future PNMs, I honestly wouldn’t recommend posting while you’re rushing. I regret making it seem like they should, but I’ve realized the disappointment that comes from putting yourself out there and not being picked can be heavy,” she advised.
At the end of the day, Kylan reinforces a vital isolation—getting into a sorority “shouldn’t define your entire life.” Friendships can form regardless of the outcomes. “If you don’t make it, don’t worry—you will still find your crew here. And if you do, you’ll have a fabulous time! Keep being yourself; that’s key!”
Eager for her last year of college, Kylan expresses her intent to stay connected with her sisters while balancing her studies and upcoming career prospects. “I want to finish strong and will cherish all my sisterhood moments,” she emphasizes.
Ready to embrace her senior year fully, Kylan can’t wait for football game days, graduation, and stepping into the working world. She looks forward to simplifying her social media approach as she aims to translate sports commentary in a relatable manner, all while sharing experiences about navigating from college life to adulthood.
“My goal is to showcase every version of transitioning out of school into the real world,” she concludes.
For the complete original story, check it out at People.
