College life has so many different aspects to it, friends, parties, academic organizations and of course fraternities and sororities. The Greek system is undoubtedly one of the more famous parts of college, even appearing in such movies as Animal House and Old School. Should you join one or not is a big question that can make or break your college experience. Here are some things to think about.
The most obvious advantage is that you have an instant supply of people to hang out with. While some of your relationships can seem superficial or shallow, many people forge long lasting friendships through their fraternities and sororities. This is especially useful if you are new to a college and have no connections there to fall back. Your first few weeks may seem lonely and a fraternity or sorority can help bridge that gap.
Another advantage is that most of the Greek system emphasizes public service and giving back to the community. They are always hosting blood and food can drives, toy drives at Christmas or work for conservation and green initiatives, and generally put a premium on some form of civic duty. Another nice bonus is that you can get a lot of free shirts through them as well.
Lastly, there are fraternities and sororities for nearly every type of person. Sure the main pull is the larger, party oriented ones, but if those aren’t your think you have other options. There are religious based Greek institutions, there are academic ones, Jewish ones, historical ones, and many other types as well. If you are into it there is probably a fraternity or sorority you can join.
There are some downsides as well. For starters they cost money to join. All those “free” shirts have to come from somewhere right? Some of the more prestigious organizations can run to over a couple thousand dollars. Another disadvantage is that you may not always get in. Fraternities and sororities take applications and conduct interviews with potential candidates and they only have room for so many new people. Every year people get rejected by the organization of their choice. On top of all of this you will have to go through hazing. While most aren’t too severe, many go too far and they can be very embarrassing. There are horror stories about hazing getting out of hand.
Lastly, you will be stereotyped by everyone else you meet. Let’s face it, most of the Greek system is centered around partying and having fun. People will judge you as shallow and superficial. They will think you are just renting or buying friends. People who are more independent or artistic definitely won’t want to join a fraternity or sorority. Of course, all of that being said, you could always avoid the whole issue and attend an online college.
About the Author
Jeff Jordan lives and writies in sunny Southern California. He writes about education, real estate and automobiles. An online university degree is another route to avoid the Greek system.
