By: Ray Lee
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Fraternities have been around since the establishment of universities in Europe. Many of these fraternities were groups of university intellectuals who shared similarities. Today, fraternities and sororities (the female counterpart) number in the thousands around the world. Though the concept of the fraternity has changed dramatically over time, there are so many out there with so many different purposes that there is something for everyone.
If you are a freshman, chances are, you belong to one of the following four groups. The first group is the “definite” group which consists of those who are definite about pledging for a greek organization (fraternities and sororities with greek letters). You do not know who to pledge for, but you feel that college life is only four years (or five or six depending on how much fun you want to have) and it would not be complete without joining one.
The next group is the “curious” group. Those who belong in this group are curious as to what fraternities and sororities are all about, but aren’t totally hooked on the idea of pledging. I personally believe this to be the largest group, but unfortunately, most that belong here usually wind up deciding not to pledge. This is mostly due to the fact that they were never really sure why they should undergo with the pledging process or the concept of being a part of these organizations.
The next group is the “definitely NOT!” group. If you belong in this group, you do not understand why anyone would want to be in one of these organizations. You do not believe there is such a thing as brotherhood/sisterhood that can be developed in a semester worth of pledging. The idea of pledging is also preposterous. Why would anyone have to go through that abuse to “prove” themselves worthy? Chances are, they are harassed and hazed and you want no part of it. You believe yourself to be social enough to make your own friends and not have to do any of those things to make friends. If you belong to this group, I hope this article bumps you up to the “curious” group.
The last group is the smallest. This group is known as the “already decided” group, meaning they already know which organization to pledge for. This usually occurs when they have a close friend or relative who belongs to the organization and, after hearing so much about it, they began to desire the same experience. If you belong in this group, I hope this article pushes you to the “definite” group.
Why shouldn’t those in the last group pledge for the organization they are already sure about? It is for the simple reason that despite all the similarities between those who are interested and the friend or family member who is already in the organization, everyone is different. They should be not be pledging for any particular organization, but instead, check out each group and see which one offers them what they are looking for.
So how should you begin to choose which organization to pledge for? The best way is to attend rush events. “Rush” are a series of events where you get to meet the members of the various fraternities. It gives you the chance for them to get to know you and for you to get to know them. Even though rush events are catered to get you more interested in pledging for them, you should be skeptical with an open mind. Understand that there is a whole process and as much as you have the power to choose which organization to pledge for, they also have the power to decide whether or not they want you as a pledge.
The best thing to do is to attend a variety of these events, most importantly, their general interest meetings (GIMs). This is where they introduce themselves to you, talk about their organization and tell you what they can offer you. For some people, all these organizations appear to be the same on the outside. However, if you analyze each one, you will be able to see huge differences.
Here are a few things you should look for:
Size of organization. There are large organizations with an extraordinary amount of chapters and members. There are also those who only have a few chapters with a lot less members. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Large organizations tend to be well-known. The chance of networking is greater. Smaller organizations have the advantage of being more close-knit. Thus, there is a greater chance that the members get to know each other more intimately.
Type of organization. There are many different kinds to choose from. The major categories are social, academic, professional, cultural and community service. There are others as well. Some are a combination of a few categories.
List of events. It’s a good idea to find out what type of events the organization participates in. Doing community service for example, might be something you are interested in doing.
Length of pledging. Though most will not tell you how long or what pledging consists of, I can tell you that it can take anywhere between 6-14 weeks. However, it is possible to get a good idea of how long the pledging process is by asking some of the members to give you a ballpark figure. Average would be about 8-12 weeks.
Dues and fees. Make sure you know how much dues and fees are before you do anything. You need to be willing to pay, and afford, them. Some organizations also have pledge dues/fees which means you will need to pay in order to pledge. Usually, these dues are to cover your pledging expenses. After you cross (become a member), you will most likely have to pay a membership fee every semester. It is a good idea to know how much it is and what would be the money used for. Dues can range anywhere from $30 to $2000 a semester.
These are just some of the things to look for. Ask questions if you have any. Don’t be shy and be as informed as possible. After rush, there will no chance to ask questions. This may be the organization you pledge for and it’s for life. Once you become a member, it is too late for regrets so find out as much as you can before making a decision.
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September 4th, 2005 at 7:06 am
Very well written. Many subjects which have been stated which i have had trouble trying to form in my mind to express to others, have been put together to in a way which is simiple to explain.
October 2nd, 2005 at 7:51 am
Way back in the day when I was an undergrad, there was no such thing as an Asian greek organization. I belonged to the group of people whom you described as the “no way” students.
I remember, when I was in high school, I lived in an apartment building that shared an alley with a fraternity. During the summer, when it was hot and I had to keep my bedroom window open, they used to fire bottle rockets into my bedroom. I found this behavior puzzling, as I kept to myself mostly.
One could chalk it up to the immaturity of youth, I suppose. It’s not like I didn’t so anything wild in my youth. Nevertheless, to compare the camaraderie of fraternity members to those members of the Armed Forces who face life and death together seems a little bit far fetched.
January 5th, 2007 at 6:56 am
Great article Ray, loved it. Not only did you throw down all the stereotypes of being/going greek but you definitely made it sound attractive.
I have been Greek for about 3 years and change now; but still end up getting frowned upon for joining a sorority by my family; especially my guy cousins.
I should have them read this article; it is absolutely enlightening.
May 10th, 2007 at 5:35 am
damn man. that’s a pretty old entry!