Many of us go to college with a malicious stereotype in mind that
fraternity and sorority "behavior" is modeled after films like "Animal House."
In reality, however, such isn't the case-- well, at least usually not ....
Many Greek organizations actually offer
excellent social, cultural, and academic experiences for their members.
In some cases, fraternities & sororities even provide
a tightly-knit system of "real world" networking--
making membership most worthwhile indeed.
As each organization is completely different,
we do not see fit to present you with a lengthy discourse
about the "pros & cons" of fraternities in general..
So instead, we've compiled a list of some of the more common RED FLAGS..
that should make you think twice before joining or "pledging" to any of the less-desirable organizations :
- Has The Organization Ever -- In Its History -- Been Barred From Campus ?
If so, it might be worth investigating the reasons for such..
Usually, when an organization has been in trouble on campus once.. even if a long time ago,--
it is probable that their current members are trouble-bound as well.
- Are Large Fees Required To Pledge Or To Maintain Membership ?
Sometimes fees are justifiable by expenses : there might be costs of $ 50, $ 100,
or even $ 200 involved in pledging.. But profit is not justifiable..
If the organization can not explain to you [at least in approximate terms]
what the money you're spending will be going towards, you might wish to reconsider pledging.
If the organization requires that members continue to contribute money
on a periodical basis after being initiated just to remain "active,"
we'd DEFINITELY recommend reconsidering.
Friendships cannot be bought nor sold -- and any money allegedly "needed"
by the organization can just as easily be obtained through cooperative fundraising efforts.
- Ask Several Of The Members How Long They've Been In College..
If you find that many of them are 5+ year students, you might want to begin looking at why.
Many fraternities & sororities paint a proverbial pretty picture
for themselves when seeking new members..
But behind "the scenes," their goal of "academic excellence"
magically transforms itself into beer-drinking contests and long,
5 hours talk reminiscing about the fraternity's "good 'ol' days" and
each member's individual pledging experience. Like it or not, this sort of behavior is
known to have a negative impact upon members' academic success.
If you're looking to get out of college in 4 years or less,
you might also want to look at a few other Greek organizations first.
- What Are The Organization's Alumni Currently Doing ?
Ask the organization you're interested in to give you as
much information as possible about their alumni.
After all, membership is supposed to be "for life," so why not find out more about the successes and contributions of those who have been involved longer ?
Make sure you get to hear about LOTS of alumni members .. not just the select few ..
Are they still contributing to the organization ?
Is there an "alumni chapter" ? Are they willing to help out and work with undergraduates ?
Are there any you can call up and speak to ?
Greek Houses
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