At this point, you've all probably been told by someone that joining a fraternity is one of the best decisions you can make in your college career. It's undoubtedly true, but insight from those people might have ended with that. Recruitment can be a lengthy process, and there is a lot to consider while navigating rush parties, dinners, and house tours. To be honest, it can be somewhat intimidating. If you make good impressions everywhere and are thoughtful before signing, you will end up in the right place. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Don't be shy.

It isn't going to get you anywhere. That doesn't mean you have to be the center of attention, either. Instead, make an effort to introduce yourself to active members without being approached first. Initiating a handshake and starting a conversation will go a long way.

2. Meet more people than the recruitment chairmen and executive team.

There is a reason why certain people are elected recruitment chairmen. They are oftentimes some of the most personable, put together, well-liked people in a house. Their job is to create a great first impression to everyone. That's why it is so important to meet other members. As a whole, they may be a great group that you feel comfortable with, or they may be far from ideal.

3. Don't be steered by your best friends from high school.

If they've been your best friends for your whole life, that probably isn't going to change if you join a different house. It might seem fun to have your old friends with you through it all, but college is also all about expanding your horizons and meeting new people. They might be your best, oldest friends, but they still might not want the same things out of Greek life as you do.

4. Talk to people who have already signed or are still being recruited.

A great way to gain insight during the rush process is to meet your potential pledge brothers. Find out their reasons for signing, and see if they align with what you're looking for in a fraternity. Consider if they're people you can see yourself being friends with.

5. Do not let being a legacy decide for you.

It's highly unlikely that a chapter is going to be the same as when an older relative of yours was active in it. No matter how happy it would make your father, grandfather, or whoever else, you simply have to do what's best for you. Follow your instincts, not the expectations of others.

6. Ask the uncomfortable questions.

Has the house gotten into any trouble lately? How many members? Are parties monitored and kept safe? These might not be the first things on your mind, but they are important and could change your preference.

7. Stop asking about and/or caring so much about intramural sports.

There are so many more important things that go into life as a fraternity man than playing on intramural teams. Stop worrying about whether the team for your favorite sport is going to be good or not. Instead, plan on being an asset and improving it yourself.

8. What is their reputation?

Stereotypes and campus reputations can't be taken too seriously. However, if you keep hearing the same thing about a house from everyone you talk to, be it good or bad, it could be worth paying attention to. Stereotypes probably aren't entirely accurate, but there are still reasons why they came about in the first place.

9. Your schoolwork is, in fact, important.

Fraternity life should never be a distraction that inhibits your academic endeavors. It should be an academic support system that constantly pushes its members to succeed. Ask for the chapter's last semester GPA, and take it into account. Inquire about their scholarship plan, and consider if it will be beneficial to you. Nearly all fraternities have one in place, but living with the system that works best for you is very beneficial.

10. It's all about the people.

All things aside, a fraternity is where you are going to make some of your best friends for life. That sounds cliché, but the reason it is such a cliché thing to hear is because it is entirely true. The single most important thing about fraternity life is making great friends who will make you a better person. If it weren't for the relationships that are built through them, fraternities would not exist.

Joining a fraternity will monumentally enhance your college experience, so do what is best for you. Good luck!