Philanthropic projects, community service, tradition, leadership development, career networking, getting involved on campus, and social opportunities are all great reasons to become a member of a fraternity or sorority, but the one cited most often by members is the sense of brotherhood or sisterhood. One of the most significant benefits of membership is the lifelong relationships. Brothers and sisters experience feelings of togetherness, support, companionship and teamwork as they learn about themselves and others. Fraternities and sororities can truly become your family away from home. 

The time commitment of fraternity or sorority membership can vary depending on the level of involvement you choose. If you choose to take a leadership role as an officer of your organization or in your council, or take an active role in planning and executing events, it will be a significant commitment. As with anything, the more you put in, the more you get out of the experience. Higher levels of involvement in your fraternity or sorority teach you time management skills which will be valuable long after graduation.

Each chapter’s dues and fees are different and include various one-time costs upon joining as well as dues paid to the national organization. Additionally, programming, social events, and philanthropy events all require funds which are primarily paid for by dues. Chapters would be happy to go into more detail about finances with you during recruitment events so you know what to expect. Many chapters offer payment plan options as well.

Fraternities and sororities both recruit primarily during the beginning of the spring semester each year, giving men and women a full semester to adjust to college life before making a commitment to a Greek organization. This is called deferred recruitment. Potential new members are expected to have earned 12 hours of academic credit and a minimum 2.5 GPA before joining. Sororities have a fast-paced, formalized process, with events spanning four days. Fraternities have a more relaxed recruitment schedule in late January, starting with IFC Open House events leading up to individual chapter events.

The new member processes of all Greek organizations are focused around understanding the history and significance of the organization, as well as developing bonds among members. However, you should never feel uncomfortable during a new member process. Rockhurst, as well as the national organizations, have a zero-tolerance policy for hazing, and will take action against any chapters who are out of line with national risk management policies and laws regarding hazing. Everyone has the right to feel safe and valued from day one.

Fictional accounts in movies and TV shows tend to focus on, and exaggerate, the “social” aspect of fraternities and sororities, rather than the multidimensional, impactful reality of membership.  The word social in “social fraternities and sororities” is actually intended to mean the interpersonal skills member acquire during their experience, not parties. Fraternities and sororities at Rockhurst are award-winning chapters in every aspect of chapter operations. We invite you to ask lots of questions to learn what Greek organizations are really about!