IN HONOR OF OUR SEVEN FOUNDERS, WE GET TO KNOW ONE ALPHA CHI OMEGA THROUGH SEVEN QUESTIONS.
Alpha Chi Omega is about empowering you to live as your true self, to reach your potential and to be the real, strong woman you are meant to be. Our sisterhood encourages members to accomplish their goals.
To celebrate our sisters who seek the heights, we spoke with Nicolette Surabian (Lambda Omicron, Chapman University), who lives her goals every day through positivity and passion. Whether it’s becoming a founding member of her chapter or starting a business, hear how she is able to accomplish her goals!
What are you passionate about? 
I am passionate about fashion and entertainment, which align perfectly with my academic and professional aspirations. I also have a strong interest in event planning and building connections. Hosting gatherings for friends and family brings me joy, and I recently combined my love for fashion and event planning while organizing one of the days for formal recruitment.
Tell us about the company you started!
I’m the founder of Coquette Cowgirl, a sorority apparel company where I design unique and fun clothing for chapters across the country. Running this business has taught me valuable lessons in resilience, innovation and balancing responsibilities.
How do you overcome challenges to meet your goals?
I’ve overcome challenges in the past by maintaining a resilient and optimistic mindset, always striving to see the glass as half full. One defining moment in my life was undergoing brain and neck surgery at just 8 years old. Facing such a significant challenge at a young age taught me the value of perseverance and perspective. These lessons have guided me through every obstacle since. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I focused on the positives, reminding myself that things could always be worse. That outlook not only kept me grounded but also enabled me to support others by sharing positivity and hope. I believe challenges are opportunities in disguise, as they test our limits, strengthen our resolve and shape who we are.
How do you stay positive?
I stay positive by cultivating gratitude and self-belief. Manifestation and positive affirmations are a core part of my daily routine. I use the app I Am, which sends me 10 affirmations throughout the day to help me focus on my strengths, goals and the good around me. Spending time with my sorority sisters is another major source of positivity in my life. Their support, laughter and shared experiences create an uplifting and inspiring environment. I believe positivity isn’t just a reaction to good moments; it’s a proactive choice that requires consistent effort and meaningful actions to stay grounded.
How do you seek the Heights?
I seek the heights by striving to be the best version of myself in every area of my life. As a straight-A student, I embrace academic challenges and look for opportunities to grow and excel. Beyond academics, I pursue leadership roles within Alpha Chi Omega, where I work to foster a sense of empowerment and community. Additionally, I’ve combined my entrepreneurial spirit with my passion for creativity by founding Coquette Cowgirl. To me, seeking the heights means pushing boundaries, taking on challenges and continuously finding ways to grow academically, professionally and personally, while also supporting and uplifting those around me.
What is your favorite Alpha Chi Memory?
I joined the Lambda Omicron chapter of Alpha Chi Omega in 2022 as a founding member. My favorite Alpha Chi memory was experiencing my first Bid Day as an active member. Being part of a chapter that is the newest on campus made it especially rewarding to see our chapter grow as we welcomed home more than double the members we originally had. It was an incredible experience to recruit and connect with new members, knowing we were building something truly special. That day was a celebration of our hard work, sisterhood and the bright future ahead for our chapter.
What are your goals for the future?
My future goals include starting a career in public relations, marketing or advertising after graduation. I’m particularly passionate about working in the fashion or entertainment industry, where I can blend creativity with strategy to make a meaningful impact. Traveling is another major aspiration of mine!
Alpha Chi Omega is excited to spotlight our sisters across the country as they reach for their goals. Share your story (or the story of a sister) in this form so we can reach out.