What is it like being in a sorority and should I consider joining one in college?

Hi Andrea,

This is a really interesting question. I absolutely agree with what Mia said - there are a ton of benefits and great reasons to join a sorority. That being said, joining a sorority is just like joining anything else - you need to make sure that it is the right choice for you. Pick the right one, with people that make you feel good about who you are and where you want to go in life. When you get to college, you will have tons of options and opportunities to connect with people in clubs and classes and sports and student organizations, and no matter what, you will end up with a wonderful network of peers who will help you not only in college, but once you graduate as well.

Personally, I went to a university where Greek life (sororities and fraternities) are very popular and I felt a lot of pressure to join one even though I knew in my heart it wasn't really what I wanted to do. Ultimately, I stayed true to myself and did not pledge - and had a fabulous four years in college anyway! I have a lot of friends who are Greek and love it, but again, making the choice that's right for you is so important.

Another thing to consider is that along with "traditional" fraternities and sororities, there are also "co-ed fraternities" that are focused on certain topics. There are community service frats, business frats, music frats, etc. - depending on what your school offers, these might be great choices for you if you have a specific professional or personal goal and also want to experience Greek life.

I hope this helps!

HI Andrea

Great question. First and most importantly no sorority or fraternity should be hazing anyone. If you hear of one that is doing that you should report it and for sure not join that organization.

Here are just a few great reasons to join a sorority or fraternity:
1. Great camaraderie with fellow members - friendships you develop here will last a life time
2. Community service - many of the requirements to join an organization requires a certain about of community service hours - so it will be a great opportunity to give back to the community.
3. Academic support - alot of the members can give you great insight and knowledge on classes, professors and majors
4. Networking - after graduation many of the members go on to do some really great things in life; and that can be an additional resource to tap into
5. Leadership - there are multiple leadership opportunities available throughout the organizaton

Those are just a few great reasons to join an organzation. I personally think it would be a great idea to join one.\

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I hope this helps.

Hi Andrea -

I've had many friends have a great experience with Greek life. There should be no hazing, so definitely keep an eye out for that, if you ever feel uncomfortable, do not continue attending events or meetings with that organization. I was very interested in a sorority, but there are dues associated with most of them that can add to your overall college cost (by thousands of dollars). As Eliza mentioned, there are also "co-ed" or professional fraternities, I joined two of those and they had minimal dues and look great on your resume. Most scholarly concentrations at a college will have a fraternity - I joined a legal professional fraternity as well as a service sorority, and didn't end up rushing the social sororities due to cost. My friends who did all had a great time and great experience, so be sure to look into all options. Good luck!

Hi Andrea - I had a great experience being in a sorority in College. I attended a commuter school and wanted to meet friends and expand my network. Not only was my experience positive from a social connection and community involvement - it was also a tremendous opportunity to hone my communications and leadership skills. I was an active member and held many leadership roles in the sorority - in my roles I did weekly presentations to the group - more than 100 women - and got valuable experience with public speaking, event planning, community relations and fundraising. Post college there have been several professional networking benefits - there is always a fun moment when you realize you share a sorority connection with a someone you come across in the working world. I would definitely recommend getting involved!