The Benefits of Going Greek in College

The Benefits of Going Greek in College Weve all seen the movies and stereotypes in the media about students who join fraternities or sororities during their time in college. But given the millions of students who have gone Greek over the years, there must be some benefits, right? Despite the negative images of college Greek life, many Greek organizations have quite a lot to offer, both during and after your time in school. If youre thinking of joining a fraternity or sorority, consider the following benefits as you decide if going Greek is right for you: 10 Benefits of Going Greek in College 1. The high level of camaraderie with fellow members: The friendships you build through a fraternity or sorority often have a different feel to them than other friendships you make during your time in school. Perhaps its because of your shared values or your shared experience as members of your Greek organization. Regardless, youre likely to make strong, personal friendships that can last well past graduation day. 2. Lots of community service opportunities: Many Greek organizations are heavily involved in community service. Your Greek house may require a certain amount of volunteering each semester or may have an annual event that raises funds for a community non-profit. If youre interested in giving back during your time in school, a fraternity or sorority can offer you a lot of different options for doing so. 3. An academic support network: Even the newest college student knows to ask around when it comes to getting the skinny on classes, professors, and majors. And with the wide range of students that are members of a fraternity or sorority, you instantly have access to all kinds of knowledge about which professors, classes, and departments are the best. Additionally, if youre struggling in a class, your fraternity brothers or sorority sisters can be a great resource for tutoring and other academic advice. 4. A professional network after graduation: Many, if not most, Greek organizations offer networking opportunities to their members long after their college years. You can tap into alumni networks and make professional connections that might not have been available otherwise. 5. A wide range of leadership opportunities: Fraternities and sororities require a lot of work given their high levels of involvement and programs. Because of this, there are often multiple leadership opportunities available each year. Even if youve never held a leadership position before, testing out your leadership skills within your Greek house can be a great way to develop some skills and give back. 6. An endless stream of learning opportunities: One of the best benefits of going Greek is the wide range of learning opportunities youll be presented with. Youll meet all kinds of new people; youll participate in all kinds of new experiences; youll be presented with all kinds of new ideas. From formal, structured events to casual conversations in the house kitchen, fraternities and sororities are always challenging their members to do, learn, and act more. 7. An additional housing option: Not sure if you should live on or off campus next year? If your fraternity or sorority has a house on or near campus, the housing benefits alone might be one of the main reasons to join. You can have all of the benefits of being close to campus without all the chaos of living in a residence hall. Additionally, youll be able to build even stronger connections with your fellow sisters or brothers if you choose to live in your Greek house. Whats ​not to like? 8. There are often scholarships available: If youre a member of certain Greek organizations, you may be eligible for scholarships or other financial aid. Additionally, if youre worried about the cost of joining a fraternity or sorority, many have scholarships available to members who have trouble paying annual dues. 9. Becoming a part of a long-standing tradition: If youre on an older campus, your membership in a historic Greek fraternity or sorority might make you part of a very old, long-standing tradition. And if youre on a new campus or joining a new(er) fraternity or sorority, youre lucky enough to be at the start of something great. Either way, theres something to be said for having a role in a tradition that has stood the test of time. 10. The chance to prove stereotypes wrong: The way fraternity and sorority members are portrayed in society is unfortunate, especially given the amazing things these students do each and every day. Your role as a fraternity or sorority member gives you a great opportunity to prove these stereotypes wrong. The friendships you make, the community you build, volunteer work you do, and programs you put on can be part of a great college experience that embodies all that going Greek has to offer.