Reasons to Join
There are several myths and misconceptions about social fraternities that are made by skeptics looking into the Greek System from the outside. In our personal opinion, being Greek not only enhances the few years spent in college but also creates life-long bonds and networking connections. Here, in no particular order, are reasons to go Greek:
1. The first and most obvious reason to go Greek is the inseparable bond of Brotherhood that you acquire from joining a fraternity. Once you become a member, you build bonds with a group of individuals who have all come together for a common purpose. There is always a friend to spend time with, a shoulder to lean on, or someone to bail you out of a tough time. It's a home away from home and a group of people you can truly call family.
2. Academic Support. It is a proven fact that individuals involved in the Greek system have a higher retention rate. The standard GPA to enable one to apply for recruitment is a 2.0 even though every chapter sets their own GPA standard, which is higher than the overall admittance of a 2.0.
3. "The Greats go Greek." I am going to throw out some statistics that just go to show that Greeks are not just a bunch of party people destined to remain in college forever. 48 percent of all United States presidents have been Greek. 30 percent of all Fortune 500 executives are Greek. 10 percent of all people listed in "Who's Who" are Greek. There are many presidents, company executives, actors, actresses, etc. that are Greek and you may not even know it.
4. Character building. All members in Greek organizations are encouraged to take leadership positions within their chapter or with another organization on campus. The responsibility and time invested in these leadership positions can prepare you for having a daily job in the "real world."
5. Community Building. All chapters are affiliated with our national philanthropy – LIVESTRONG, the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Throughout the year, each chapter holds fundraisers to raise money. In addition to the philanthropy fundraising, each chapter performs different community services.
6. Networking. Hand in hand with number three, Greeks have a built in network with their alumni. Graduates of Greek organizations go on to work in a multiplicity of fields within the workforce. Alumni are always willing to help fellow brothers get a leg up in the "real world."
7. Social Events. Social events provide as a great tool for meeting members of other Greek organizations, as well as giving individuals the opportunity to invite non-Greek members to social gatherings and formals.
8. THON. While THON is a campus wide event. Don't forget that THON was originally created by the Greeks and the Greek Community is still a major factor in all that is THON.
9. Intramural Sports. Intramural sports give you an opportunity to play a sport that you enjoy while competing against other organizations and teams. They are a great way to meet people outside of the Greek community and to show team spirit.
10. Ritual. All Greek organizations have traditions or secrets that are not shared with the general public. This is often the most personal and loyal part of life in a Fraternity – it is what bonds you to the Fraternity for life. Overall, Greek students report being more satisfied with their college experience than unaffiliated students. Going Greek may not be for everyone, but why not give it a chance and see if it is for you!
Some parts adopted from The West Georgian, written by Brit Cole, originally published 08/28/2008. Reprinted without permission.