Trying To Understand Sisterhood And Brotherhood.

Not everyone is interested in joining Greek Life while away at college, but it is a large part of college life for many people even if they aren't technically in it. Everyone knows at least one person involved in Greek life, but doesn't understand what it mean to be a part of it. To understand what it means to be in any kind of sorority or fraternity isn't easy and usually every organization has their own definition. Those involved in these organizations have certain rules and expectations they must follow to be the best sister or brother they are capable of being. Explaining what it means to be a sister or a brother in the Greek world it can be difficult, especially for those of us who aren't in Greek life but are surrounded by it.

"Brotherhood, to me, is being a part of something bigger that will drive you up the wall and simultaneously make you feel at home." - Brandon Bassham, senior at Longwood University.

The important part of brotherhood or sisterhood isn't necessarily to enjoy every single person a part of the same organization. Neither is the association that Greek life is a way for people to pay for their friends, or to pay to be a part of something. Instead the dues that are paid for fraternities and sororities are meant to pay for the several festivities and activities included within the program such a date parties or formals.

"Being in PMD (Phi Mu Delta) helped me overcome internal struggles, and be a more contributing member in society. PMD taught me the intrinsic value of voluntary service to the community." - Chad McDonald, senior/alumni at Longwood University.

For most people being a part of Greek life is more than having something to be a part of, it is having a second family that is more diverse. A family filled with people who are strangers but still family. In a fraternity or sorority it is a group of people who will always be there for each and every individual. But also with being a part of something, the organization is meant to help each one grow and learn something new.

"Joining is so worth it, because, once you do, you not only have a new group of friends, you're doing community service alongside those who love it as much as you do." - Kim Herrling, sophomore Longwood University.

Brotherhood and sisterhood within Greek life isn't easy to explain without relating it to an actual family, because a fraternity and sorority is supposed to be like a family. Whether or not everyone likes one another is not a point, just as it isn't the point to pay an organization for friends. A fraternity and a sorority is meant to help a person grow and learn more about the world and about themselves.