A new school year is about to start and we all know what that means - recruitment season is right around the corner. There are people who know that they want to join Greek life from the start and there are people who question it. No matter where you fall, I encourage everyone to check out Greek organizations. There is a home for you, even if you don't think there is.
1. You meet some of your best friends
Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Going Greek allows you to meet some of your best friends in your own chapter and the other chapters on campus. Along with your sisters or brothers, the friends you have in other chapters will have a huge impact on your life. They will be the people you can alternate social attire with, attend date parties and formals, and posts pictures with corny captions like "Despite the letters, we're in this together!"
2. T-shirts for everything
Delta Zeta
You will never run out of t-shirts. You get a t-shirt for every event. "Oh, we are making a float with Alpha Sig this year I wonder what our shirts will look like." "We're going out of town to bond, I hope our shirts are cute." Not only can you get t-shirts with your letters and designs, you can also buy them from other chapters. The number of fraternity t-shirts I own is getting close to the number of shirts I have for my own chapter.
3. You get to play dress-up once a week
Alpha Sigma Phi
Usually once a week you have a social, which is normally a themed party between a sorority and a fraternity. You get to dress-up all kinds of different ways for all the different themes. You can dress-up like the tackiest tourist, an alien, or even in a toga.
4. You always have a support system
Sigma Sigma Sigma
No matter what is happening, you will always be surrounded by people who have your back. It does not matter if you are upset because of school or a relationship, your brothers or sisters are always there for you. They are willing to tell you what you need to hear while also being your shoulder to cry on.
5. You can raise money for your commuity and philanthropy
Sigma Tau Gamma
Greek organizations partner with organizations who help people in need. For example, Sigma Tau Gamma is partnered with Special Olympics and Alpha Xi Delta works alongside Autism Speaks. Greek organizations also help the community where their university is located, such as when they raise money for food banks, clean up downtown, and work with community centers.
6. Networking and connections are limitless
Kappa Sigma
Being Greek allows you to meet people outside of your major, school, and even state. The people you meet are future business partners and employees. Also, your affiliation looks great on a resume and will help you stand out. You may even end up working with an alumni.
7. Academic opportunities are everywhere
Alpha Chi Omega
You must keep a certain grade point average to stay off of academic probation in a Greek organization. Joining Greek Life pushes you to take care of your grades. Also, if you keep certain grades you can get scholarships through your respective chapter and be initiated into Greek Honor societies.
8. You will improve your time management skills
Alpha Tau Omega
Greek Life also teaches you to manage your time because you will have many events to host and attend along with your schoolwork, job, and social life. You have so much to balance and keep track of. Joining Greek Life will teach you how to prioritize and stay on track.
9. You learn to be a leader
Pi Kappa Alpha
You have so many opportunities to hold leadership positions and grow as a leader in Greek Life. Whether you hold a position in your chapter or no position at all, Greek Life helps you become a better leader. It helps you become a better leader because other members look up to you for guidance and support. It helps you become a better leader because you must always be willing to step up and lend a helping hand.
10. Memories last forever
Kappa Alpha Order
You can make memories anywhere and with anyone, but the best memories are made when you are with people who love you and share your interests. Some of the best memories can be from living in your sorority or fraternity house with your best friends, getting ready for the homecoming game, or just binge-watching the hottest Netflix series.
11. You become part of tradition
Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.
Going Greek also creates the chance to take part in tradition. NPHC organizations at Marshall advance meaningful traditions and service opportunities. NPHC consists of nine ("The Divine Nine") historically black fraternities and sororities. Although all Greek organizations focus on service, NPHC organizations hold service to a higher importance while striving to give back to the community and create connections within it. Students wishing to learn more about the history of NPHC can inquire here.
Marshall students interested in joining Greek Life can sign up for recruitment here or visit HerdLink for more information.
