So you're thinking about going Greek. You've probably heard the positive and negative aspects about Fraternities and Sororities from a variety of people, and yet, you've decided to give it a try anyway. Now, before I continue I feel obligated to let you know about the process and what could possibly happen. So here are a few things you might want to think about before you accept that bid.
1. You might actually learn to be financially responsible
You're expected to pay dues. Crazy, right?! Every organization, regardless of which organization or school you go too, has an expectation that you will pay dues. Dues allow the chapter to run smoothly because the money you pay goes towards everything your chapter does. Dues fund philanthropies, fundraisers, sister/brother hood events, socials, retreats, you name it and I bet your dues will cover it. Now dues are not cheap, I pay on average between $300 and $400 every semester! Which if you're a college student, than you know that's A LOT of money, so you'll have to learn to budget that paycheck real quick. But who needs to learn to be financially responsible? It's not like you'll ever use this skill in life, right?
2. You'll become (gasp!) a Leader
When going Greek, you'll be presented with a lot of leadership opportunities. This can be anything from an Executive Board position to being the Public Relations chairperson. You'll have to go to meetings and actually talk through problems that your chapter is faced with! Other members of your organization will look up to you and they could potentially reach out to you for advice, isn't that just terrible?! You could even be the President of the Panhellenic Association or the Interfraternity Council! I mean who really wants put themselves in a position like that?! Not only would you have to go to meetings but you might have to run them. You would have to learn tasks like delegation and conflict mediations. It's highly unlikely that you could put these skill on a resume or even use them in real life, right?
3. You'll have to get involved within the community
Gasp! This means you'd have to think about someone else other than yourself!!! You'll have to attend philanthropies, raise money, and you might even have to do some community service! Why would you do such a thing?! And by doing stuff like this you might learn to be empathetic!! You might even meet people who can help you learn about how getting involved can help you within your career... It's not like you need recommendations or anything.
4. It won't be the best decision of your life
Making friends, forming bonds, and learning what leadership truly is just sounds too hard. Why should I spend my time with a group of girls who have similar interests and hobbies as me? Why should I learn leadership? It's not like I'll ever use that skill set.
Greek life is so much more than people may think. It's about finding yourself while finding where you belong. So instead of doubting Greek life, give it a try. You never know, you might love it.
