- Greek Life Q & A
- How do I determine which organization is best for me?
- Whether to join a large or small chapter, a culturally-based group or a general fraternity or sorority, a newly formed chapter or one that has been around for fifty years, is simply a matter of personal preference. Each organization has its own advantages. Selecting a fraternity or sorority is like choosing friends – pick the group with which you feel most comfortable.
- Do fraternities and sororities provide housing? Must I live in the house to join?
- All of the general fraternities and sororities and two culturally-based fraternities operate chapter houses adjacent to the campus which provide the opportunity for small group living. Since the membership recruitment process occurs during the semester, new students should secure their own housing for the fall semester. Typically, freshmen live on-campus in residence halls, and many then move into fraternity and sorority houses their second year (residence hall contracts are on an annual basis).
- Must I live in the chapter house if I wish to join a residential Greek organization?
- Less than half of the members of residential Greek organizations live in the chapter houses in any given semester, although most members do live in the chapter house for part of their tenure at SDSU. Some organizations require that members, except for local students who live at their parents’ home, reside in the chapter house for a minimum of one year.
- How much does it cost to be a member of a social fraternity or sorority?
- Given the benefits provided, Greek membership is a bargain. However, students should consider the costs in planning their personal budgets. On average, the per-semester cost for a sorority member to live in the chapter house is $3000 per semester, including room, board, and all dues and fees (For comparison purposes, the cost to live in an on-campus residence hall, with a comparable meal plan is about $4250 per semester.) Dues and assessments for members of residential sororities who live out of the house total about $750 per semester. In addition, there are one-time initiation and house fund assessments which average $450 and are paid during the first semester. Most sororities offer payment plans.
- For residential fraternities, the average rent is $1500 per semester for traditional style housing and $2450 per semester for apartment style housing (these costs do not include meals). Dues and fees for IFC fraternities average $450 per semester ($325 for the initial semester). The average total of the one-time fees paid during the first semester (initiation, etc.) for IFC fraternities is $350.
- The average semester dues for USFC organizations are approximately $180, with an average one-time initiation fee of $100. The average semester dues for NPHC groups is $50 per semester, with an average one-time initiation fee of $300.
- What is the membership indoctrination process?
- Most organizations require their members to complete a probationary period, sometimes called "pledgeship" prior to initiation for the purpose of orientation and member development. During this time you’ll learn the history, traditions and operating procedures of the organization and participate in activities to get to know the members better. Organizations use various terms to refer to their pre-initiates, including "pledge," "new member," "associate member," and "candidate." The duration of the new member period varies from four weeks to an entire semester. Some organizations require new members to achieve a certain grade point average during their "pledge" semester in order to qualify to be initiated.
All African-American-based Greek organizations affiliated with the National Pan-Hellenic Council have abolished the traditional "pledging" process and have implemented a new membership selection and education program called "membership intake process" or simply "intake." The new-member period for NPHC groups is typically very short but may include nightly meetings.- What is hazing and is it permitted at SDSU?
- Hazing is defined as any action taken which produces bodily harm or danger, mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, fright, or ridicule. Once a common tradition, hazing has been banned by all national fraternal organizations and institutions of higher education. SDSU rigorously enforces this policy, and organizations that violate the policy are subject to immediate suspension of campus recognition and privileges.
- How much time does fraternity or sorority membership require?
- Like most other extra-curricular activities, how much you get out of your Greek membership is related to how much you put in. On average, expect to contribute four hours per week for meetings and mandatory activities. Optional activities such as holding an office, attending social events, playing on an intramural sports team, or helping out with various projects will of course take additional time. With good time management, your Greek activities will easily fit into your weekly schedule and allow plenty of time for classes, studying, work, and participation in other campus activities.
- Will Greek membership affect my grades?
- Academic achievement is a priority for most organizations. Many organizations enforce grade point average requirements and offer study sessions, tutoring, and other programs to assist members achieve their potential. Students who take advantage of the academic support available and properly balance their time between academic and extra-curricular pursuits will find that Greek membership will enhance their academic performance. Several national studies have consistently found that retention rates are significantly higher for fraternity and sorority members than for unaffiliated students.