Recruitment is happening all over the country, now, for Panhellenic sororities and IFC fraternities alike. For some, it’s a one or two-week process full of parties, smokers, and stressful lists that determine the group of people that you will be calling “brothers” or “sisters” for the rest of your life. Pretty huge decision, right? But what if you find out that stereotypical Greek life isn’t for you?
I know, I know. That’s not a common decision, but it’s one that happens. There are also those who want to be part of something bigger than themselves but don’t find Greek life appealing (yes, those people exist). There are organizations, however, that proudly display their letters, but with a twist.
Phi Sigma Pi.
Phi Sigma Pi is a gender-inclusive, national honor fraternity that functions on a tripod of scholarship, leadership, and fellowship. The goals of this
organization are to build professionalism in its members who span over a number of majors and careers. The process of becoming a brother is one of the most exciting experiences as you learn the secrets of the fraternity as well as go through Big/Little Reveal all while planning your own events for your initiate class. They recently changed their national philanthropy to Hugh O’Brian Leadership Foundation (HOBY), an organization that dedicates its time to developing the new generation into a global community dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. Each chapter also has the opportunity to choose a local philanthropy as well, which all members of Phi Sigma Pi to get involved with their community.
More information can be found here.
Alpha Phi Omega.
Alpha Phi Omega (APO) is also a co-ed, service-based fraternity based on their Cardinal Principles of leadership, friendship, and service. The process of becoming a brother is similar to most fraternities, including learning the secrets of the organization, experiencing big/little reveal, and finding many ways to give back to your community. Nationally and chapter-by-chapter, members of APO have a number of
service projects that are definitely worth looking at, especially if you’re considering joining this organization. Because of the number of projects and service-based functions, there's a numerous leadership opportunities teaching lessons that will last a lifetime. Many amazing organizations are partnered with APO, like the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, America’s Promise Alliance, Boy Scouts of America, Camp Fire, Girl Scouts of the United States of America, and Youth Service America.
More information can be found here.
Gamma Sigma Sigma.
Gamma Sigma Sigma (Gamma Sig) is a national service-based sorority that focuses heavily on developing leaders and serving their
community. Gamma Sig prides themselves on their unique recruitment style: members choose the organization. There’s no complicated recruitment process. The path to becoming a sister is exciting as the new members learn the foundation for this great organization as well as find a new home and family all while experiencing some Panhellenic sorority staples, like Big/Little Reveal. Similar to APO, Gamma Sig has a number of partnerships, like Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and March of Dimes, both of which chapters hold unique fundraisers to bring awareness and money to these amazing charities.
More information can be found here.
All of these wonderful organizations are all wrapped up in a guaranteed no-hazing package! How great is that? So, don’t fret if Greek life isn’t for you; student involvement doesn’t hinge on Panhellenic or Inter-fraternity Council membership. You have options! Feel free to check with your local chapter to see when their recruitment events start and ask questions! Who knows? It may be the best decision of your college career.
All information was found on each organization’s national website.
