As trifolds close up, speakers turn off and tables are put up, this season of Greek Rush has come to a close. However, this does not mean that any students that were possibly on the fence and missed out should no longer pursue going Greek.
One of the most significant hindrances of joining Greek life has been the poor images portrayed by films and media. To Jake Lopez, of Sigma Chi, a fraternity is, “a group of people who understand what it means to be a man, to be better, to grow, to lead society, and to do it together.”
Some people might claim these organizations exist solely for individuals’ amusement, but to many these organizations stand for a brotherhood, sisterhood and are support system that is unlike any other.
These organizations not only support their members, but they even help them improve upon themselves. Many students that come into college struggle with taking responsibility and lack self-confidence. Indira Herrero, of Alpha Sigma Alpha, said by forcing students out of their comfort zone, and placing them into a position of leadership, they can learn about “responsibility, how to manage their time, how to manage a budget” and other various tasks that they will need one day. Individuals like Lopez have their fraternities to thank for allowing them to practice and hone in on their “leadership qualities” and ability to communicate.
These organizations are not only focused on bettering the lives of their members but also the lives of the community that they are placed in. Sororities such as KD Chi are a community service based organization that take certain needs to heart, in their case they support the American Cancer Society and are looking forward to being a part of Relay for Life this year. KD Chi’s philanthropic pursuit is simply one of many different examples among other Greek organizations.
Joining a Greek organization is not a small decision to make, and members such as Jennifer Ramirez, of KD Chi, would agree.
Ramirez recommends that students “don’t feel rushed, don’t feel pressured… Greek life isn’t for everyone.”
Just because this rush season may be ending soon does not mean that students will no longer have any opportunities to interact with Greek organizations. Many organizations have active social media pages and websites where they post upcoming and past events, many of which allow for non-Greek students to attend.