Nu Chapter of Phi Sigma Rho
University of California - Los Angeles
About Nu Chapter of Phi Sigma Rho
Phi Sigma Rho's Nu Chapter represents a specialized community for women and non-binary students in technical fields at UCLA in Los Angeles, CA. Established in 2003 by Christina Yang and Vivian Ku, this chapter continues a legacy that began at Purdue University in 1984, when founders Abby McDonald and Rashmi Khanna created a sorority specifically designed to accommodate the demanding schedules of engineering students while maintaining strong sisterhood bonds.
What distinguishes Phi Sigma Rho from traditional sororities is its deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by women and non-binary individuals pursuing technical studies. The organization was born from a genuine need—members couldn't participate in conventional recruitment due to their rigorous academic commitments. This origin story shaped a culture centered on flexibility, mutual support, and recognition that personal growth extends far beyond the classroom.
The chapter's values emphasize building a support system where members find confidence, create cherished memories, and develop relationships that extend well beyond their time at UCLA. Members describe the organization as more than a sorority—it's a home away from home where ambitious, determined individuals from diverse backgrounds unite around shared goals and genuine care for one another. The sense of belonging cultivated within the Los Angeles-based chapter provides an invaluable foundation for students navigating both the intellectual demands and social aspects of university life.
Through philanthropy, sisterhood retreats, study sessions, and social events, Phi Sigma Rho creates opportunities for members to support each other while contributing positively to the broader UCLA and Los Angeles communities. The chapter's growth and continued legacy demonstrate the enduring power of a community built on authenticity, mutual encouragement, and the recognition that excellence in technical fields is achieved not in isolation, but through meaningful human connection.