TWO PASSPORTS, ONE BOND

Sisters Meet While Studying in the Heart of Denmark

By Brianna Bramlett, Gamma Upsilon–University of Montevallo

When Camryn Kramer, Beta Delta-Indiana University and Neive McInerney, Sigma-University of Illinois, signed up for a study abroad program in Copenhagen, they expected adventure, new cultures and maybe a little homesickness. What they didn’t expect? To find a best friend, and Alpha Gam sister, thousands of miles from home in the capital of Denmark.

A study abroad housing program designed to connect students based on shared habits and interests assigned them as roommates. Months earlier, each had submitted a short “letter to a future roommate,” hoping to connect with someone they could get along with, but neither mentioned Alpha Gamma Delta. And yet, in a twist of fate, out of more than 1,200 students in their program, the program placed them together.

“I went to follow Neive on Instagram to connect with her,” Camryn recalled. “I realized she had pictures in our letters… I was already beyond excited to leave for abroad, but knowing we already had something in common and something to connect on made leaving home that much easier.”

That instant connection deepened when they met in person. “When we first met, I knew we would click right away,” Camryn said. “Within minutes of being in one another’s presence, it felt like we had known each other long before.”

Both women came from Big Ten schools, had lived in their chapter houses and brought a similar energy. “We bonded over silly stories from our experiences the first night with our other roommates, and that was when I realized how similar we were and what a great roommate pairing we were.”

Their friendship unfolded quickly as they explored new places, from classes during the week to weekend getaways. A highlight for Camryn was their trip through Croatia and Montenegro, a journey that began with chaos and ended with magic.

“It was my 21st birthday, and our ferry to the island of Hvar got canceled the day before,” she said. “So, on my birthday, we took the ferry in super rough waves and rain to get there.” After taking a much-needed rest, Camryn walked into a surprise celebration. “All my friends had surprised me with gifts, decorations, champagne and more. We popped the bottle of champagne and realized the sun was coming out.”

What followed felt surreal. “We walked out to the perfect double rainbow, listened to Taylor Swift and Neive and I danced in the rain. It truly felt like a movie.”

Though the experiences were unforgettable, what Camryn valued most was Neive’s steady support and energy. “Neive is what my dad would call a go-getter,” she said. “She is motivated and hardworking. She’s the kind of person who brings good energy into every room and makes the people around her feel supported.”

Their shared sorority experience played a meaningful role in their quick bond. “Being in the same sorority gave us this instant connection and understanding,” Camryn said. “Even though we’re from different chapters, we had a shared language and similar values that made it easy to trust and open up to each other early on.”

Looking back, Camryn believes their friendship could have formed regardless, but the Alpha Gam connection gave it a head start. “It definitely helped us go from roommates to close friends quickly.”

She encourages other sisters considering a study abroad experience to embrace every opportunity. “Take the leap, even if it feels scary at first,” she said. “It’s the most incredible opportunity for growth and the best time to see the world.” Her advice? “Say yes to EVERYTHING. Those moments become stories you’ll remember and tell for the rest of your life.”

Reflecting on the months abroad, Camryn said the experience expanded her view of what sisterhood really means. “It reminded me that home isn’t always a place – it’s the people,” she said. “Alpha Gam isn’t just about who you live with or the women within your chapter. It’s the shared connection and values that bring people together, even in the most unexpected ways.” isn’t always a place– it’s the people. Alpha Gam isn’t just about who you live with or the women within your chapter. It’s the shared connection and values that bring people together, even in the most unexpected ways."