If you have the desire to join a fraternity or sorority then this article is for you.
Being in college is a time for experience and exploration while trying to define yourself as an individual. Some people discover these things in a organization based upon principles and morals they strongly believe in.
If you are lost in the Greek World, it’s okay, a lot of people are. But this doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to what you are capable of doing for yourself and organization.
First, let’s get this out of the way:
Why Go Greek?
Everyone has a different opinion for this obviously, but one reason that a lot of people go Greek is to build a bigger network of friends and peers.
On each college campus there is a specific chapter. One chapter is only part of a larger organization that could have over 100 chapters across the nation or world.
Therefore, you will have some sort of connection with all of those members whether you know them personally or not.
But beyond the networking, you will build lifetime relationships with people you may have never met otherwise.
For most, the sisterly or brotherly bond is REAL!
Get To Know The Chapter Members
According to LEAD, contacting the members directly is VERY important. This is important because there is no point in joining an organization that you know nothing about.
Learn who the people are who came before you, the ones who paved the way for YOU. This is important because you don’t want to call someone your brother or sister if you know nothing about them or the organization they represent.
Otherwise, what would be the point?
Attend the Events/Socials
Attending their events and socials is another way to get to know the members within the organization.
By attending, it shows your commitment to them and you will also have a chance to see what kind of events they have and how they act which will make it easier for you to make your decision whether you really want to be a part of that organization or not.
Remember that what you see on the surface does not necessarily reflect what is inside so make sure to talk to people, be observant, and do your homework on who these people are and what they’re all about.
Attend the Rush Meetings
Attend the rush meetings ONLY if you are serious about committing! While it is fine to check out rush and maybe go through a round or two, you really shouldn’t continue rushing if you find that Greek life just isn’t for you.
Most sororities and fraternities are for LIFE meaning once you are in, there is no turning back. Of course you can drop after joining, but why go through all of the hoops of rush if you aren’t committed?
This is why doing your research about the organization is so important.
Practice, Patience
After you attend the rush meeting or informational, the members of the organization will see that you are fully committed to dedicating your time and energy into the chapter.
Now is the time you practice. After you have submitted to the organization of your choice, you must now wait to see if they want YOU too.
Things to Keep in Mind
1. Being in a fraternity or sorority takes a lot of work.
As stated before, there is more to the organization than what you see on the surface because in actuality, it is a business that NEEDS to be run in order to survive.
Conducting, planning, and executing events and fundraisers are what helps to keep the chapter running.
2. Joining a sorority or fraternity has a lot of secret rituals.
This isn’t something that should frighten you, but keep in mind that you need to be able to keep secret many things. Not that it’s a bad thing, but it’s important to keep things sacred for your the sake of your organization. It’s similar to the rules of your family: what goes on at home, stays there.
3. Do not let the letters MAKE who you are! Be an individual!
In peace, love and happiness
BIANCA
