I wanted to get involved more on campus — a club, a sports team, a church, a group of guys who played poker on the weekends, anything! I never really saw myself getting into Greek Life in college. I knew next to nothing about fraternities and sororities. Throughout my first semester of college, I was exposed to different fraternities. Phi Sigma Pi stuck out to me so I decided to rush and it's been a terrific decision. My floor in the dorms included six brothers and I credit them for introducing this fraternity to me. Here are the reasons why Phi Sigma Pi was the right choice.
1. There's absolutely no hazing whatsoever.
None. Zero hazing. We have no tolerance for pressuring you into doing something or making you go through embarrassing or ridiculing rituals. We treat new brothers with respect. We want you to join so you can embrace a loyal brotherhood and so we can get to know you even more.
2. I liked what it stands for: fellowship, leadership, and scholarship.
I thought it was unique when I first found out how many ideals Phi Sigma Pi embraces. It's not just a social fraternity; it isn't just an opportunity to lead; it's not just a chance to unite under academic achievements. It's all those benefits combined with amazing experiences.
3. I wanted diversity.
Before I had joined, I was well acquainted with current brothers of Phi Sigma Pi and I realized that no two brothers were exactly the same. The other fraternities I considered rushing seemed to not offer as much variety in terms of personalities and characters. There was just a different vibe around Phi Sigma Pi brothers — different backgrounds, interests, and hobbies. It keeps things exciting.
4. It's gender-inclusive.
This is yet another way we are such an accepting fraternity. Whether you identify as female, male, or anything in between, there's a home for you in Phi Sigma Pi.
5. It's an honor fraternity.
Yet another perk is how good "honor" sounds. Friends, family, and employers that I've talked to are usually intrigued when I tell them I'm part of an honor fraternity. You do not have to be part of an honors college to be in Phi Sigma Pi. Having said that, we encourage our brothers to excel in academics and often times arrange study groups.
6. Fun social events.
There's never a dull moment at our events. We explore the Towson/Baltimore/D.C. area for entertaining activities. Examples include zoo trips, summer beach trips, museum trips, skyzone trips, laser tag trips, and of course, one of my favorite events coming in at #7...
7. Formal!
Yes, there is an outlet for my inner craving to break out and dance. Formals are the time to dress fancy, bust a move, eat some high quality off-campus food, and take funny pictures. Did I mention there's a lot of dancing?
8. Giving back to the community.
Coming into college, I wanted to find some way to continue my passion for helping to create a healthier environment and community. We engage in service events that range from planting trees to picking up trash to knitting scarves for those who need them.
9. It's a chance to be a leader.
Test out your leadership skills by running for different positions we offer. Plan events, coordinate car pools, chat with employers, and make suggestions to continue to move the fraternity in a positive direction.
10. You interact with other chapters from nearby colleges.
One of my favorite events we participate in is a volleyball tournament.
11. More brothers means more friends and more friends means more opportunities.
It's because of a brother that I'm even writing articles for the Odyssey in the first place. Another brother has turned me into a fan of the complex sport, kronum. Another brother is into jazz music so I can learn a new musical perspective from him. Every brother opens me up to try new things by simply being themselves and expressing what it is they're passionate about. You become intrigued and give it a shot to go to that club, or apply for an internship, or play a new sport.
12. Resume booster.
Ah yes, it doesn't hurt to put down that you're in a national honor fraternity on your resume.
13. The brothers are outstanding individuals.
I've been totally inspired by the brothers in Phi Sigma Pi and am very fortunate to have met my brothers. Without this fraternity, I would not be as sociable or outgoing. It has pushed me to try new things and explore what people have to offer.