When Edgar Vargas arrived at Carnegie Mellon University, Fraternity life wasn’t even on his radar. “I never knew fraternities existed,” he recalled. Now a junior studying Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and a minor in Economics, he serves as president of CMU’s Pennsylvania Phi Chapter Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE). His journey from newcomer to chapter leader is marked by personal growth, a deep sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to brotherhood.
Vargas's introduction to SAE was unexpected. “Coming to CMU was a shock. My roommate brought me to an SAE event, and I immediately felt a connection — a sense of camaraderie,” he said. That initial spark ignited a passion for leadership and a desire to give back to the organization that helped shape him.
Through early leadership roles, Vargas found that SAE not only fostered friendships but also offered invaluable real-world skills. “This chapter has given back to me in so many ways — in leadership, in management. I want to pass that on to the next generation, to give them the same epiphany I once had.”
Stepping Up to Lead
Vargas’s decision to run for president wasn’t made lightly. He felt a responsibility to uplift others in the chapter the way he had once been. “I love being a role model,” he said. “Being someone others can look to, step into my shoes, and go even further — that’s the legacy I want to leave.”
His definition of leadership is deeply tied to his experiences. One defining moment occurred during a Spring Break trip when Edgar was invited to go around with SAE brothers from Florida simply because he was wearing letters. To Edgar, they were “complete strangers, but they took me in. That’s the power of this brotherhood,” he said.
Inner Circle: A National Perspective
Edgar’s leadership journey took a national turn when he was selected for SAE’s Inner Circle, a prestigious retreat that brings together 30 collegiate brothers from across the country for a weekend of personal growth and inspiration.
“It’s about understanding what it means to be a true gentleman, beyond college,” he explained. The experience includes sessions with successful alumni, members of the Supreme Council, and fellow student leaders. For Vargas, the impact was profound. “It opened my eyes. Some chapters have this undeniable passion, and it made me reflect on what we could do better. CMU has done a great job, but there’s always room to grow — especially in our FSL community.”
One of the most memorable moments came on the final night: a bonfire where brothers shared deeply personal stories. “We all came from different places, but we were there for something bigger than ourselves. That was powerful.”
Reimagining Greek Life
Vargas is candid about what he wishes more people understood about Fraternity and Sorority Life. “It’s a lifelong commitment. You don’t leave it when you graduate. The brotherhood, the network, the values — they stay with you.”
He encourages potential new members to explore all options before making a decision. “Every fraternity has its own members, its own values. SAE aligns with my goals and holds a dear purpose in my life. But I’d tell anyone: don’t limit yourself when you’re looking.”
As he looks to the future, Vargas is both hopeful and strategic. Nationally, he sees SAE as an organization that helps young men transition from “boyhood to manhood.” On campus, his goal is to see the chapter take on greater leadership in philanthropy and community involvement.
“I want us to lead not just in Greek life, but across CMU — helping foster a real sense of community,” he said. For Edgar, SAE is more than a fraternity. It’s a platform for change, a training ground for future leaders, and above all, a brotherhood that endures. “To me,” he said simply, “being in SAE means being a true gentleman.”
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