It's the classic campus showdown between those who are in greek life and those who decide to go another route through college. It's time to break down the benefits of both sides of an argument that never seems to have a clear winner. Let's see how the "GDI's", the non-greeks, measure up to the proud members of greek organizations.
Round 1 Spirit:
Greek life comes out swinging hard with their spirit and enthusiasm. The comfort of having a group to belong to in a new place is differently a positive point. According to an article published by USA Today, those who are members of greek life have better grades and are more likely to graduate. From throwing what they know to repping their letters, and decking out their spaces in paddles, canvases painted letters and other greek themed decorations, they take pride in showing the world the organization they call home. One of the many traits to be envied by those of the greek community is the immense pride with which they represent their organizations through some GDI's might take this blow a little harder than others, rather than obnoxious, I find it endearing to see how proud they are. Unable to keep the gloves up in any real form of defense it looks like the GDI's might just have to concede this round.
Round 2 Expenses:
The GDI's look like they are out to prove something this round. With the extra money and time, they gain from not needing to attend chapter, mandatory events, or waking up at the crack of dawn for a philanthropy, not to mention the pain of rush week, many of them argue that they are able to dedicate their money to other things. While the dedication and hard work that some greeks give to multiple jobs to be able to pay dues and other fees is admirable, many GDI's argue that their time is better spent in other ways, such as enjoying free time. However, in some cases I guess, they may be bitter that their own parents wouldn't fund the somewhat expensive journey that is greek life.
Round 3 Networking:
The Greeks are making a statement in this round, I mean how could they not? Things like this look great on job applications. Not to mention the great networking, bonds, friendships and opportunities that come with being in nationwide organizations that have thousands of current and past members. The sisterhood and brotherhood that you form with those in your chapter, to knowing you have thousands of brothers and sisters all over the country and world, has its bragging rights. I mean, jobs, internships and even maybe finding good deals on your future house, planning your wedding, buying a car, who knows where these kinds of connections will lead? I mean imagine being frat bros with the next Tim McGraw or being sisters with the next Carrie Underwood or Kate Spade? It could lead to some absolutely amazing things later in life.
Round 4 Conformity:
Once again, the GDI's are staging a comeback. Arguing that free from the stigma and rules of greek life many of them find the freedom of not having to adhere to an exec board something to definitely put down as a pro. While greeks might argue that most of these stigmas are in fact not true you still have to deal with how that perception might look to you. In fact, the argument could be made that the way some people view the decisions to go greek could, in fact, hinder you not just on campus but long after you leave and join the working world.
After going 4 rounds, in the red corner Greek life made a strong showing for all of the positive things that come from joining one of the many houses on campus. From friendships and bonds to all of the good they do in communities all over the country, there are a lot of positive things that come from being greek. However, in the blue corner, the GDI's didn't go without a fight, getting some good hits in as well. From logical responses like saving money to more social views, the commissioners have no choice by to declare the fight a draw.
Having been both a greek and a GDI in my time in college, I can say that both have benefits. Although, I do urge anyone who is even thinking about going through rush, to go ahead and take that leap. You'll regret it if you don't and it's honestly a great experience even if you end up like me and decide it's not for you, or can't afford to keep up with dues. Try it, it might surprise you.
