When I tell someone that I am a part of a greek organization at UH Manoa, their immediate response is often “There's Greek Life at UHM?" Why yes there is, in fact, a well-established, enthusiastic, small yet rapidly growing Greek Community here at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Now containing three sororities — Beta Beta Gamma, Alpha Gamma Delta, and Phi Mu — as well as two fraternities — Tau Kappa Epsilon and Kappa Sigma — we are gaining a more well-known and influential presence on campus. Although UHM Greek Life is not stereotypical to what you would experience, in say, the south or on larger campuses with century-long greek communities, but it has many unique experiences and opportunities to offer. If this hasn't convinced you enough, here are six major reasons why greek life at UHM is so great.
1. You're in Hawaii
Pretty self-explanatory I know. But, UH Manoa is the only university in the state of Hawaii that has a greek presence. That means all of your sisters and brothers from other chapters across the nation will most likely know a lot about you or really want to get to know you, seeing that you're from the beautiful islands of Hawaii. I, as well as many women from my chapter, have experienced this first hand when meeting women from other chapters of our organization and it is wonderful.
2. Everyone is a Family
Because there are only five organizations on campus the entire community is very tight knit and interacts frequently. It's much easier to have "All Greek" events and get everyone together, as opposed to if you were dealing with 20-40 organizations on campus.
3. Your Events Are Held in Beautiful Places
Seeing that you are in Hawaii means functions can be held on gorgeous beaches all year round, sisterhood/brotherhood events can be hikes to refreshing waterfalls, and formals take place in luxurious hotels that often contain breathtaking views.
4. More Leadership Opportunities
A small community means a small campus total, which means chapters ranging from 50-80 men/women, which means your odds of getting a leadership role in your organization are much higher. If you're looking to have your voice heard, this is the place. In addition, it is much easier to become involved in the Greek Community itself.
5. It's a Way to Get Involved in the Community
All Greek Organizations have inspiring philanthropies and indulge in vast amounts of philanthropic work throughout the school year. What makes this opportunity so special in Hawaii is that you often times get to work with unique organizations within you philanthropy that you wouldn't find anywhere else.
6. We Are Still Growing
Just last year a new organization emerged onto campus, which means others could not be far behind. More and more interest has begun to arise in the UHM community as well as throughout the nation in our greek life. Being a part of something that still has so much potential and growth to happen is extremely special.
If a magnificent family away from home in a beautiful place is your thing, and this article has convinced you how wonderful our Greek family here at UH is, then you should Go Greek and make sure to check out our incredible organizations this fall.
