Community Editor
As new students are settling in, preparations for the recruitment process of sororities and fraternities have been underway since last semester.
On campus, there are three Panhellenic sororities: Alpha Sigma Alpha, Phi Sigma Sigma and Sigma Sigma Sigma. There are also three Interfraternity Council Fraternities: Kappa Alpha Order, Phi Kappa Tau and Sigma Nu.
During the month of September, both groups go through their formal recruitment and rush processes, respectively. This formal recruitment involves meeting the Greek organizations and its members and participating in events such as barbeques, game nights and socials. “Going Greek” is a term commonly used to refer to the action of becoming a member of a Greek organization. Some people come to college knowing they want to join Greek, while others never thought they would, and the reasons for joining are varied.
“I wasn’t planning on going Greek at all during my first year,”
said senior and Tri-Sigma member Christy Kyrus. “But since I was a commuter at that time, it was difficult for myself to form bonds with people. I decided one day to just try it out and go to one of the open events that Tri-Sigma had. Immediately when I stepped into the room, I knew that joining a sorority and going Greek was the best decision I will make in my four years. I felt like it was going to be my new home. And it is.”
“Go where you feel the most comfortable,” said senior Brittany Popp, a member of ASA. “It’s important to know you aren’t alone in the process and that other girls feel just like you.”
In the spring, there is a less formal opportunity to join a Panhellenic Greek Organization, known as informal recruitment.
“I felt comfortable with the people who I had met on campus, especially since I live eight hours away from home,” said Popp, who went through recruitment during the spring. “They also persuaded me and made me feel like I found a new home.”
For those women potentially open to becoming a participant, Kyrus offered her advice.
“[It] is an experience of a lifetime where you will truly meet the women you will want to have at your wedding,” said Kyrus. “Going Greek doesn’t mean that you are joining just one chapter, but you are making a bond with other women from different chapters, as well. We are a family, and I highly recommend everyone who is interested to just give it a try. Try it, and I promise you, it will make you a different woman in the best way possible.”
“It’s important not to judge the recruitment process or the sororities,” said Panhellenic Counselor Dani Profitt. “It may look scary, but everyone should give it a try.”
Profitt also said that there are leadership opportunities within sororities and through the connections acquired through sororities.
“Overall, I’ve learned leadership skills. I have two leadership positions and it’s only my sophomore year,” said Profitt. “I’ve become more outgoing and more dedicated to getting people to go Greek.”
Events for recruitment and rush this semester are occurring this week. All Greeks encourage people to attend.
