Greek life is one the best things I have ever been a part of, but there are so many stereotypes about it. There are so many assumed facts about students who join a fraternity or sorority and even more assumptions about Greek life itself. These individuals who assume facts about Greek life have never experienced the fun and joy of being in a fraternity or sorority.

A lot of assumptions that are made are about what happens in Greek life is partying. Everybody thinks that Greek life is about partying all the time. People think that hazing is a regular thing for both fraternities and sororities, that Greek life is about drinking and partying. Individuals think the rituals and initiations are gross and weird, that going Greek is all about yourself.

Greek life is not about partying and drinking. It is about being a part of a tight brotherhood or sisterhood and improving yourself. It is about making yourself a better person and being a part of a family. Hazing incidents reported in the news are not an accurate portrayal of Greek life. I know that my school has a no hazing policy, which means that if hazing is reported, the fraternity or sorority responsible will be disbanded. Rituals and initiations are also not gross and weird. They are actually quiet relaxing, but a little nerve-wracking at times. Greek life can also be used as a great networking tool. There have been many people who have gone through college in a fraternity or sorority and are happy to help out a fellow brother or sister. Lastly, going Greek is not about yourself -- it is about becoming something bigger than yourself. Greek organizations do a lot for the college/university and the community. Also, every Greek organization has something special they raise money for. For example, my fraternity, Kappa Sigma, raises money for military veterans.

When I first announced to my family that I was joining a fraternity, they were not happy. They grew up with these assumptions in the back of their mind and were afraid of what would happen. Greek life is not like it is in the movies. It is amazing and an adventure. Joining a fraternity was the best choice I have ever made. Greek life has made me a better person and I have dreams of becoming the president of my fraternity. Greek life has given me new goals that won’t be easy achievements.