Whether you're an incoming freshman on the fence about rushing in the fall, an upperclassman curious about joining Greek life or a non-affiliated student wondering about what the big deal is with going Greek, I can honestly tell you that going Greek has changed the lives of many for the very best. Being a part of the Greek system opens the doors to so many wonderful opportunities that will positively influence a person's life.
The first semester of freshman year is more than hectic, that's for sure. Between learning where the student section is in the football stadium, missing your parents and adjusting to a new lifestyle, it is difficult to consider involving yourself in something as crazy as fall recruitment. However, I do encourage all people considering the process to participate in the song singing, chant yelling camaraderie that is otherwise known as Fall Recruitment.
Why should you go Greek? Well, my friend, I have compiled more than enough reasons why you should take the plunge into Greek life.
1. You will gain incredible social skills.
If you are intimidated by public speaking, that fear will soon be over after going Greek. You will meet so many people, so quickly, that you will learn to easily socialize with people of all backgrounds and feel comfortable speaking in any setting. Not to mention you will never have to worry about an awkward silence.
2. You will have additional housing options after freshman year.
Dorms only last through freshman year, people.
3. The friendships made in your Greek organization are lifelong.
Your future maid of honor and your child's godmother is probably going to be in your sorority.
4. You will be a part of a long-standing tradition.
5. You will never have a dull or unoccupied moment
Between inter-Greek sports, chapter, dance practices, date parties and philanthropy events, your organization will always have something going on that you can participate in.
6. There are many scholarship opportunities.
Most, if not all, organizations offer scholarships to their members to cover tuition, housing or dues!
7. Greeks have higher GPAs
Yes, its true. Greeks statistically have a higher average GPA than non-greeks. Most houses have a certain grade point average required for membership, usually set at (or around) a 3.0. Greeks are also 25 percent more likely to graduate than non-Greeks.
8. You will always have a tutor to help you in your worst subjects.
Awful at biology? Don't worry there is more than likely a future doctor in your house, and they're always more than happy to tutor (for free).
9. You will also have plenty of mentors and "life coaches."
Upperclassmen are always willing to donate a word or two of advice to their new members. It's always beneficial to learn from the mistakes and experiences of upperclassmen. Not to mention that your Big will always be there for you, even on your darkest day. It's all about the sisterhood or brotherhood.
10. Yes, you'll pay dues, but they pay off in the long run.
Dues go towards three meals a day, an endless supply of t-shirts, leadership seminars and plenty of fun events to participate in (not towards "buying your friends"). The price is well worth the benefits.
11. You will always have someone to do something with.
Need to catch a ride to the away game this weekend or a place to stay for the summer? Nothing is better than having a group of brothers or sisters willing to help you out.
12. You will have endless leadership opportunities on your campus, which can help you after graduation.
Fun fact: Since 1825, all but two presidents have belonged to a Greek organization and both female justices of the Supreme Court belonged to sororities. Eighty-five percent of Fortune 500 CEOs are Greek as well.
13. You will be able to participate in many community service projects, including your organization's national and local philanthropies.
Many organizations have a required number of community service hours per semester to continue membership.
14. You will have the opportunity to make endless networking connections.
There will always be that person in your house that "knows a guy who knows the CEO of a company."
15. You will meet a wide variety of people.
Whether it is your sorority's brother fraternity or a new member from Uganda, there is always someone new to meet.
16. You will forever have a sisterhood or brotherhood, even after graduation
17. You will always have a place to belong
18. You will regret it if you don't go Greek.
