Rise Above the Stereotypes

You’ve heard them. I’ve heard them. The Greek community is branded by them.

 As great as this university is, Michigan State is notorious for the clichéd stereotypes about Greek life and its different fraternities and sororities. There are four common stereotypes whispered and shared around campus that reflect poorly on the Greek community. It’s time to debunk these silly rumors the Greek system has been labeled by and tell everyone the truth.

1.    You’re basically paying for friends 

This stereotype is extremely untrue. Greek life is so much more than formals, flip cup, and free t-shirts. Like anything for a national organization, money is involved and dues must be paid. But sisterhood and brotherhood is priceless. Money can’t buy the amazing memories made or the love you have for your brothers or sisters.

      2.    The inappropriate nicknames

Every sorority and fraternity has a nickname around campus that skews the image of their particular sisterhood or brotherhood. Many have heard dumb sayings or rhymes about a certain frat or sorority that is not remotely true about the organization. Decide for yourself if you like them or not, don’t listen to the ridiculous gossip murmured around campus.

3.  It’s all about the party

False. Parties come and go and they are always super fun but that’s not what Greek life is all about.  The experiences shared with your sisters or brothers are much more than that. There are philanthropies, retreats, and even the dinners with over hundred of your girls or bros is so much more meaningful than a themed frat party. Don’t get me wrong, parties are a big part of any college experience, but it’s not the only thing that Greek life stands for.

4. Basic sorority girl stereotype

Spirit Jerseys. Bows.Hunter Boots. Monogram anything. Lily Pulitzer everything. So what if we like looking presentable and sometimes dress too girly? It’s cute! As member of the Greek system, I constantly hear people saying, “You don’t act like the typical sorority girl”. What does that even mean? I am a girl. I am in a sorority. I am a sorority girl. How am I supposed to act? This label is silly and I 100 percent discredit this stereotype. Girls, you do you.

Greek life has become a huge part of who I am and it becomes tiresome and irritating listening to these crazy stereotypes. Hopefully this clears up some of the rumors spread around MSU so that the next time you hear something about a certain sorority or fraternity, you will think twice before you believing it. Have fun, check out the Greek system with an open mind, and rise above the stereotypes.