Note: This is not a jab at Greek life at UMass Amherst or any other institution. This is a list of alternative organizations for those who are interested in being a part of something bigger here on campus.

Fraternities and sororities. The houses are lit up with various colors shining through the windows. The Greek lettering can be clearly seen on the side of most of there buildings. Between the awesome parties and secret rituals, Greek life is a close bond between either brothers or sisters, and is known for dominating college social life, especially in the south. Here at the Zoo, we have plenty of long standing and great communities you can possibly join if you want to rush, but for those who don't, there are plenty of other great opportunities as well. Here are just some of the many possibilities.

1. Intramural sports

Like going to the gym? Like being athletic, but don't want to commit to a club sport or try walking on to a division 1 team? Want to meet new people and play sports that are a little ridiculous? Intramural's is perfect for you. Either form a team made out of your friends, or sign up as a free agent and latch onto a team and meet new people. It's a lot of friendly competition, and you get to burn those calories off that you got from eating at Berk. Plus, with a fully functioning mobile app and website, it's easy to sign up and create your own team. Click here to check it out.

2. Religious organizations

Were you a huge fan of youth group growing up? Want to meet people who practice the same faith as you? Whether you're Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, or anything between, you can check out some amazing organizations and communities such as the Newman Center, Hillel, or the local Hampshire Mosque. Worried that you be discriminated against based on your sexuality, gender, etc.? A full list of resources for those in the LGBTQ can be found right here. A full list of religious organizations on and near campus can be found here.

3. Presidential campaign groups/political interest groups

Feeling the Bern? More of a Rubio type? There are plenty of presidential campaign advocacy groups located on campus. If you're a political science major, just really like politics, or want to help support who you want to be the nominee of your party and the eventual president, join an online group on Facebook, help advocate, stage rally's, and meet new people in the process!

4. Clubs

With over 20,000 students on campus, there is bound to be a club that you'll be interested. Whether it's hiking, skiing, ball room dancing, mock trial, if you have an interest or passion that you love to do and want to meet new people doing, check out Campus Pulse by clicking here to learn more about clubs and events happening on campus.

And finally...

5. Community Service Groups

Who doesn't love helping out others who are in need? There's plenty of programs and groups available through UMass that allow you to give back to the sorrounding towns, as well as gain some leadership skills in the process. Plus, you get to meet people you may have never just ran into on campus. Interested? Click here to look at the community service opportunities you can find at the Zoo.

Think these alternatives are cool but that you're interested in Greek Life? You can do both! There's plenty of great fraterinites and soroities right here on campus. View the full list here.