Just got into the college of your dreams? Have you been hearing about the term 'Greek life' being thrown around here and there and are unaware of what it is? Let us help you out today as we are going to explain there is everything to know about Greek life! We will talk about the basic terms like fraternity and sorority to what they offer. So, let us not waste any more time and dive right into it!
What is Greek life?
'Greek life' is basically a term for different exclusive societies- fraternities and sororities that have an association with the university or college where they are established. Many of them have various chapter spread over campuses. These fraternities and sororities are known for having exclusivity and a high bar of entry, but if you are able to become a member, it does come with its advantages since many fraternity and sorority members become friends for life and even become colleagues. So this is what people mean by 'greek life.'
What is a sorority?
A sorority is a college campus organisation that promotes friendship and community, among other things. This organisation is for WOMEN only! Each sorority has its own set of goals, regulations, and expectations, but all Greek organisations generally share them. Sororities provide a deeper function for their members than simply offering a place for new students to meet like-minded friends. Sororities also set rigorous academic and behavioural standards, which means members are held accountable for their performance and actions.
What is fraternity?
Fraternity is similar to what a sorority is but for MEN! A fraternity is a brotherhood formed around common goals and aspirations. The members share their efforts, friendship, and knowledge. Together they learn, grow, and make the fraternity. There isn't much difference between a sorority and a fraternity since the only difference is that a sorority is for women and a fraternity is for men.
Why do Sororities and Fraternities use Greek Letters?
Fraternities and sororities have used Greek letters since the founding of the first academic fraternity, Phi Beta Kappa, in 1776. At the time, studying ancient Greek was popular in higher education. Even when the study of Greek decreased, the idea of utilising Greek letters gained popularity because it generated a sense of exclusivity and mystery. Fraternities and sororities often have particular membership standards and secret rituals in addition to displaying and wearing Greek letters.
Why should you join 'Greek life'?
There are many reasons when we talk about why you should join a fraternity or sorority. Let us look at a few of them.
Helps you in your academics
Many fraternities and sororities require a certain GPA to have a good standing there. In simpler terms, you need good grades to participate in many activities that happen there, and if you don't, well, you won't be able to participate!
Career opportunities
Greek life also provides access to extensive alumni networks, which are known to help in job placement following graduation. Membership in a Greek group might also help your resume. Joining one of these student clubs will allow you to be involved in your community by requiring volunteering and service activities. It also demonstrates that you have social and leadership qualities that are valued wherever you work
Social life
Greek life is an excellent method to make friends early in your college career. Greek groups attract students from a wide range of origins, towns, and majors. This diversity can be used to connect with and learn about students who are not like you. Furthermore, fraternity and sorority chapters frequently hold seasonal fundraisers and formal gatherings. These chapter events provide additional opportunities to network and socialise with other students on campus.
If you ever feel like you can’t make friends then our blog on how to make friends will surely be your best bud.
Pros and cons of the Greek life
There are many pros and cons you have to think of before making a decision to join a sorority or fraternity. To help you understand better, here are a few pros and cons!
Pros
- Networking
Living the Greek life allows you to learn one of the basic fundamental skills everyone needs to learn: networking. Greek clubs help build networks that frequently serve as a resource for students looking for internships, jobs, referrals, or workers.
- Philanthropy
All the good that fraternities and sororities provide is perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in the world. Many people make a lot of effort to promote a culture of charity and service. From one organisation to the next, and even from one chapter to the next, participation in charitable activities varies.
- Social Identity
Students who join fraternities and sororities develop their leadership abilities, sense of social identity, and social skills. They also learn how to get along with others. Greek life definitely teaches you all the fundamental skills you need to learn as a student!
Cons
- Abuse of drugs and alcohol
We all know what happens during frat parties, not just fraternities but sorority parties as well. There is a lot of booze, drugs and other harmful substances. Greek culture far too frequently supports a drug and alcohol misuse culture. Young, inexperienced drinkers might easily fall into trouble in the name of acceptability due to this society.
- Time Issues
You should plan on having absolutely no free time while pledging. Most of the time spent outside class is spent attending meetings, completing tasks, or being present in the chapter house. These commitments can significantly affect a student's study and sleep habits.
- The money!
One of the biggest costs in your college budget may be the cost of membership. Dues for a single semester in a fraternity or sorority can cost you over $1000 at a typical public university. This excludes jackets, t-shorts, and other items. You could end up burning a hole in your pocket.
What are Greek Councils?
Many Greek organisations are governed by various and larger national organisations, and they are:
North American Interfraternity Council
The IFC is a national organisation that brings together many fraternities on the same university campus to create a more diverse Greek community; various fraternities have come together for this purpose.
National Panhellenic Council
Women in sororities all around the nation are supported by the National Panhellenic Council. The objectives of this national organisation are to bring together sorority women by enhancing their communities and sustaining high academic standards.
The National Pan-Hellenic Council
Another group that promotes fraternities and sororities coming together on and off campuses is the National Pan-Hellenic Council. In Greek life, the NPHC promotes equality for black men and women.
That is all you need to know about Greek life, and that is need to know. If you are feeling lonely in college, you can read our blog on how to beat loneliness. If you are looking for student accommodations near your dream college, you can visit amber to find your home away from home.
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