Greek life, namely fraternities and sororities, is a staple of colleges and universities. Despite negative connotations, these organizations provide a sense of community and culture to students worldwide, as well as alumni connections after graduation. However, there are college Greek life pros and cons to think about first.

The Greek system is a haven for many college students that leads to future relationships in life. However, before joining, consider these college Greek life pros and cons.

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Greek Life Pros

An Expanded Social Circle

If you’re a naturally shy person, Greek life will provide you with an immediate social circle.

The first thing you’ll do when pledging for a fraternity or sorority is meet people. You meet people during the rush process when you pledge, and if you’re accepted into the house. Greek life makes campus life comfortable because you’re integrated immediately into a community.

Future Leadership Opportunities

You can involve yourself in activities that build leadership skills.

A lot of Greek life often revolves around various events and obligations:

• Recruitment
• Social gatherings
• Philanthropic events

These are great opportunities to insert yourself into the community and meaningfully contribute. You may be able to develop specific skill sets, become a mentor to underclassmen, gain your own mentors, and demonstrate leadership potential for your future career.

Better Housing Options

You have the opportunity to live in a sorority or fraternity house.

An immediate benefit of joining a Greek organization is the room and board provided by their housing. You have an alternative to living in the dorms or in an off-campus apartment with your new brothers or sisters.

Maintaining Academic Standards

In order to stay within an organization, your grades must stay up.

Many Greek houses require your grades are within a specific range, or else you will be placed on probation. Not all houses require it, but the ones that do help ensure their members’ success.

Instant Connections Through Networking

You will immediately have access to alumni across the country.

An immediate benefit of Greek life is the alumni network you can tap into after graduation. If you’re moving to a new city, it’s easy to check and see if an alumni club is already there to join. It’s also helpful when looking for jobs to contact alumni for recommendations or openings.

Greek Life Cons

It Costs Money

Greek life is expensive.

You automatically are on the hook for dues and other associated costs. Before deciding to rush, do your research and ask around what the costs are to join and maintain membership. If it’s too much than you can afford, then don’t worry about it.

It Takes Up Considerable Time

Understand that you are making a serious commitment with time.

Besides class, and possibly work, you have to add another schedule onto your routine. Greek life consists of many events and meetings. Some are optional but others are mandatory. If you can’t see yourself devoting a lot of personal time to the organization, then don’t put yourself through the rush process.

Dealing With The Stigma

Not everyone views the Greek system favorably.

Many stereotypes exist about Greek life. By joining it, you are subjected to judgment by others. Often, certain fraternities or sororities have different reputations, so consider that and if you want to be associated with anything negative. The stigma itself is unfair but unfortunately still real.

New Rules

Get used to new set rules to follow.

Many houses have specific policies in place. These may include rules like maintaining specific study hours, or mandatory attendance for meetings and events. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to deal with too many rules, then this structure could rub the wrong way.

Hazing Risk

Be mindful of any warning signs that could lead to hazing.

Hazing is illegal and forbidden on most college campuses. Unfortunately, there is always the risk that a Greek organization could allow such behavior to occur. If you’re ever in a situation that is either physically dangerous or emotionally damaging while pledging, then leave immediately.

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College Greek Life Pros And Cons FAQ