Studying in the US: fraternities and sororities explained

Fraternities and sororities: weighing the positives and negatives of Greek life 

Fraternities and sororities are student clubs, mostly found at US universities and colleges. Each organisation is formed around goals or aspirations that the members share. They are often referred to as the Greek system because of the Greek letters used to stand for each of the different branches or clubs. There are often multiple fraternities and sororities at each university. 

In this article we will: 

• Explain what fraternities and sororities are

• Explore the advantages of joining a fraternity or sorority 

• Examine the potential downsides of joining a fraternity or sorority 

• Look at the process of joining a fraternity or sorority

• Outline the questions to ask to find the right one.

What is the Greek system? 

The first Greek organisation was founded in 1776 at Appalachian State University in North Carolina as a place to discuss events, university issues and studies outside the strict academic environment.

Today there are more than 1,500 Greek organisations across various universities in the US. And although Greek life is most commonly recognised in American university life, they do also exist in universities in Canada.

Today, the Greek system refers to a network of groups, also called fraternities and sororities.

These organisations are social, often with a strong focus on community, friendship and personal development among their members.

The Greek system encompasses both fraternities and sororities. However, Phi Beta Kappa is an esteemed academic honour society in the United States, founded in 1776, and is not a traditional fraternity or sorority. It focuses on high academic standards, achievement and intellectual distinction.

Election to Phi Beta Kappa is based on academic excellence and those selected represent a small percentage of college students at institutions where the society has a chapter of the national group.

What is a sorority? 

A sorority is a social organisation, typically exclusive to women, that is part of the Greek system. These organisations are often founded on principles of sisterhood, academic achievement, community service and social development.

Common sororities across the US include: 

• Alpha Chi Omega (AXO)

• Delta Delta Delta (Tri Delta) 

• Kappa Alpha Theta (Theta) 

• Kappa Kappa Gamma (Kappa) 

• Alpha Phi 

• Delta Gamma (DG) 

• Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA) 

• Sigma Kappa (SK) 

• Alpha Delta Pi (ADPi) 

• Gamma Phi Beta (Gamma Phi).

There are many more sororities across the US, each with its own unique history, values and traditions. This diversity allows individuals to select sororities that resonate with their preferences.

What is a fraternity? 

A fraternity (frat) is a social organisation, usually for male students. Fraternities are another part of the Greek system in the United States, and they share common characteristics with sororities.

College fraternities are known for fostering a sense of brotherhood among their members and have a strong focus on social, academic and community-oriented activities. Like sororities, fraternities use Greek letters as symbols, and each fraternity has its own set of letters, mottos and traditions. 

These include: 

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) 

• Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp) 

• Delta Tau Delta (Delt) 

• Phi Delta Theta (Phi Delt)

• Theta Chi 

• Lambda Chi Alpha (Lambda Chi)

• Kappa Alpha Order (KA)

• Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

• Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) 

• Sigma Chi.

Each of these fraternities offers a different focus and support for students depending on their shared goals and are just a few of many available across US university campuses. 

Popular African-American Greek organisations 

Several African-American fraternities and sororities, commonly referred to as the “Divine Nine”, hold a significant presence in the United States. These organisations have deep historical roots and a strong commitment to community service, leadership development and cultural enrichment.

The Divine Nine comprises: 

• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (ΑΦΑ) 

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (ΑΚΑ)

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (ΦΒΣ)

• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (ΚΑΨ) 

• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (ΩΨΦ) 

• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (ΦΒΣ) 

• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (ΖΦΒ) 

• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (ΣΓΡ) 

• Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (ΙΦΘ).

Many of these groups were developed at historically black universities or colleges (six of them at Howard University). They are a huge part of the campus culture at these institutions and are focused on giving back to the community and developing cultural pride while tackling issues that are critical to the black community.

Sorority vs fraternity

The key distinction is that fraternities are mainly male-focused and sororities are female-focused.

However, the main focus of forming networks, engaging with the community and organising campus events can be found in both fraternities and sororities.

What is the point of a sorority? 

The point of a sorority is to create a tight-knit community for women within a college or university. They provide a supportive network and are often part of national organisations. These have multiple chapters or groups on different college campuses, each with its own members and local traditions. The national affiliation allows for a broader network of connections and resources, fostering a sense of unity among members of the same sorority across various campuses. 

One key aspect of sorority life is the notion of sisterhood, which stretches beyond college years. Joining a sorority means becoming a lifelong member, maintaining bonds with “sisters” well beyond graduation.

Many sororities have on-campus housing where members live together. This emphasises the close-knit environment, encouraging social interaction, mutual support and the development of lasting friendships.

Many sororities are overseen by the Panhellenic Council, a body that organises and governs sororities on a college campus. The council plays a central role in coordinating the recruitment process, where potential new members interact with different sororities. Beyond recruitment, the council fosters inter-sorority relations, promoting unity and collaboration among members. 

Social frats and professional frats 

There is a difference between social fraternities and professional fraternities in the Greek system.

Social fraternities place a strong emphasis on fostering friendships, shared social life and a sense of brotherhood. Professional fraternities focus more on building networks within specific career fields and providing opportunities for members to enhance their professional development. 

You can choose to join both social and professional fraternities. 

The fraternity equivalent to the Panhellenic Council is the Interfraternity Council (IFC). The IFC serves a similar purpose by coordinating and governing the fraternities on a college or university campus. It manages aspects such as recruitment, inter-fraternity relations and the establishment and enforcement of standards and policies. 

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What do you do in a sorority or a fraternity 

There are many different aspects to Greek life. This includes programmes such as the “Big-Little Program”, where senior students mentor first-year students. Members can also take part in formal occasions, retreats, volunteering, theme nights and fitness events. 

Beyond the social side, sororities and fraternities organise workshops and alumni gatherings to help members expand their leadership skills, work on professional qualifications and expand their networks. This is all to support students to enter their chosen career paths once they graduate. 

How do you choose your fraternity or sorority? 

Each Greek organisation is founded on certain beliefs and values. Consider what you want to gain from joining one, whether it is to make friends, to develop a careers network or to get more involved in volunteer work. You can then choose a fraternity or sorority based on how closely it aligns with your goals.

Matt Halverson, a student at the University of Oklahoma, is a member of the Interfraternity Council and a member of Alpha Tau Omega. He shared his experience of choosing the right fraternity for him. “When looking for an organisation, I wanted to find a group of men with leaders who were passionate about myself and my peers’ continuous development in all stages of college life as well as after graduation... My organisation has truly given me lifelong friendships that I attribute to shaping the man that I am today,” he said.

Some questions to ask before joining might include:

• As a member of a fraternity or sorority, what am I expected to do? 

• How will joining a fraternity or sorority affect my studies? 

• What leadership opportunities are available?

• What community service do you take part in?

• Are members required to live in the chapter house?

• What are the membership expenses? What does that fee cover?

• What are your current members like?

• What are your values?

• Are you officially recognised by the university?

• What is involved in orientation?

• What are the benefits of joining Greek life?

• Why did you join?

• Why is your organisation different from others?

• What is alumni involvement like?

• How can you help me once I graduate?

Students do not have to join immediately in their first years of university. Many organisations are happy to accept new members from any year group. 

How to join a fraternity or sorority 

Recruitment process 

There are two forms of recruitment in the year: formal and informal. Fraternities and sororities can admit new members at various times throughout the year, but formal recruitment usually begins in the first semester of the academic year. 

Formal recruitment lasts about a week and can be a fun and interesting experience for students, especially first years who are new to university. All students can join, and different fraternities and sororities will hold a number of events for students to learn more about them. Informal recruitment is usually shorter and requires less commitment from students who are considering membership. 

At the end of the recruitment stage, organisations give out bids to invite students to become “rushees” and begin the process of initiation, often referred to as choosing to “Go Greek”. Some students can request a letter of recommendation from an alum in the hope it will help them receive a bid. 

Rushing 

The term “rushees” is another way of describing students who want to join a Greek organisation. During the recruitment process, rushees participate in multiple social activities where they have the opportunity to learn about sorority life.

Pledging 

Once rushees have made their choices and begun the process of joining Greek organisations, they become pledges. Pledges take part in more exclusive events to become more acquainted with the goals and traditions of their future societies.

Active members provide educational workshops and explain how academic achievement will be supported.

Each fraternity and sorority has its own traditions and rituals that members take part in during this stage. Pledges may be asked to recite facts about the history of the organisation or recite the traditional sayings they have learned during the process of initiation into the society.

When this final stage is complete, pledges are welcomed into the group through the sharing of secret information about the organisation. This can include secret handshakes, mottos, values and stories that only other members know.

Legacy considerations 

Some Greek organisations might prioritise legacies. These are students with family members who were alumni of that particular fraternity or sorority. This tradition holds particular importance because it signifies a multigenerational connection to the institution’s history, values and traditions.

When it comes to rushing, some Greek organisations might give special priority to legacy candidates. This acknowledges the familial history within the fraternity or sorority and aims to support a sense of continuity, linking the past with the present.

The engagement with legacies is not just in the recruitment phase; it often involves ongoing connections with the families of both current and potential members. This sustained relationship-building strengthens ties between the organisation and its alumni network, creating a network that spans generations. 

Pros and cons of Greek life 

It’s important that students understand the impact of Greek life and the type of experiences that you have within a sorority or fraternity. This will help you choose based on your own personal preferences rather than following the crowd. 

There are many pros and cons to consider. Speak to current members at open days, research their histories and check out their social media platforms for a real glimpse into what Greek life is like. 

Benefits 

Social 

Starting university can be daunting and some students take time to adjust to college life. By joining a sports group, society or organisation, students will meet people with similar interests. Joining a Greek organisation is just another way to make new friends and feel part of a community.

Academics 

Fraternities and sororities often focus on academic excellence and help members with their studies. Members come from every year group, which allows students to share their experiences and provide each other with support. 

They often set up GPA requirements to inspire members to prioritise academic excellence. If a student falls below the set GPA, they might go through a probationary period with additional support. Continued failure to meet the requirements can lead to consequences such as restricted participation or, in extreme cases, removal from the group.

Philanthropy 

Philanthropy is a fundamental aspect of Greek life, with fraternities and sororities engaging in charitable activities and community service. Their efforts often involve fundraising events, volunteer work and partnerships with local organisations. 

Professional networking 

Students also have access to a network of alumni who might be able to help them secure opportunities, such as internships or work experience, during and after university.

An alumni association is a great benefit of Greek life, allowing students to find employment opportunities through previous sorority or fraternity members.

Campus involvement 

Participation in campus involvement is a common and encouraged aspect of the Greek life experience. Members contribute to student societies, clubs and committees, showcasing their commitment to the broader university community.

Negatives 

Greek life, despite its positive aspects, is not immune to criticism and challenges. Negative incidents within fraternities and sororities sometimes attract media attention, shedding light on issues such as hazing, misconduct or harmful behaviour. These instances can contribute to a negative view of Greek life, affecting the reputation of individual chapters and the entire Greek community on college campuses. 

Cost of joining a fraternity or sorority 

One significant consideration about Greek life is the financial commitment involved. Membership fees, which can be expensive, are necessary to fund various aspects, including social events, philanthropy initiatives and house maintenance. 

It’s noteworthy that a large portion of the fees (“dues”) is allocated to insurance for the organisation. In cases where some houses engage in problematic or risky behaviours, the entire community shares the burden of increased insurance costs.

This arrangement aims to ensure accountability and financial stability, even though it might result in a notable proportion of individual dues being directed towards insurance coverage. 

Time commitment 

The pledging process demands considerable time, and involvement continues even after initiation. Students will need to find ways to balance their time between Greek life and their university work.

Substance abuse 

Some parties might involve excessive drinking and potential substance misuse. The communal aspect of Greek life sometimes amplifies alcohol consumption and susceptibility to peer influence.

Often “silence” or “moratorium periods” have been called due to concerns. These periods involve a temporary suspension of certain social activities, aimed at promoting a safer and more responsible environment within the community.

Efforts to promote responsible drinking, educate members about the risks of substance abuse and implement policies to ensure the well-being of individuals within the Greek community are ongoing initiatives.

You can read about more about US-wide college alcohol policies and drinking prevention that work to help colleges implement alcohol interventions, share the truth about alcoholic myths and support the student body and parents in the college community. 

Hazing and initiation 

In the past the initiation process has often included “hazing”, where prospective members are asked to carry out dangerous or illegal activities to prove their dedication to joining a fraternity or sorority. Due to severe injury and, in some unfortunate incidents, death, hazing is now illegal in many states and many universities enforce strict rules against hazing.

It is not compulsory to join these organisations. It is your decision whether you wish to be part of a fraternity or sorority and you don’t have to do anything you believe to be wrong, harmful or dangerous. 

“Hazing is a crime punishable by fine or imprisonment. The Administrative Board considers all reports of hazing in the normal course of its oversight, taking disciplinary action in appropriate cases and reporting confirmed incidents to appropriate law enforcement officials,” says the Harvard Student Handbook 2023. 

Despite universities taking measures against hazing, there are still occasional reports of incidents. Hazing Prevention provides information on how to stop hazing or what to do if you see it happening. 

While it is usually more common to see fraternities facing hazing challenges, similar issues are not uncommon in sororities. 

There are many positive things about joining a fraternity or a sorority. Joining one can provide a sense of community, can help students to make friends, can help them to perform better academically and have access to an alumni network which can help with career prospects. However, it's important to take into consideration the financial implications and time commitments that come with joining a fraternity or sorority.