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STUDENT'S GUIDE TO JOINING A FRATERNITY/SORORITY
With
all the negative stereotypes of fraternities and sororities, why would you
want to consider joining a fraternity or sorority? The reason is clear at
Washburn...students who join a fraternity or sorority consistently outperform
non-affiliated students academically and have a 25-percent higher chance of
graduating from college than non-affiliated students.
Other
tangible benefits our students will tell you his or her fraternity/sorority
membership is about:
Friendship
At Washburn
University, fraternities and sororities enable young men and women to establish
strong friendships that last beyond the college years. Affiliation provides
you with an opportunity to interact with students of all ages, backgrounds
and interests. You will meet a wide range of people within the Greek community
and other student organizations. Membership offers a network of support while
making the transition to college life. Sharing your college experiences with
a variety of men and women will provide bonds and friendships that will last
a lifetime.
Leadership
and Involvement
Fraternity
and sorority chapters are self-governing bodies in which the members take
on the responsibilities and offices of the organization. This hands-on experience
helps members develop leadership, organizational and communication skills.
Chapters and members interact and make connections with other student organizations
and departments on campus. Greeks learn the importance of dedication, working
with others, responsibility, and self-reliance. Plus, there are many leadership
opportunities within the Greek community apart from those within each fraternity
and sorority chapter. Whether you are a natural leader, want to cultivate
your skills, or just want to be involved, Greek life will help you develop
your unique, individual potential.
Service
One of the
most gratifying aspects of Greek life is the sense of satisfaction and pride
that comes with involvement in community service. Greeks throughout the nation
recognize local and national organizations in need of aid by donating time
and money through their special philanthropies and service projects. Washburn
Greeks raise tens of thousands of dollars and devote hundreds of hours in
hands-on service each year to a variety of projects that benefit the citizens
of Topeka and Shawnee County. In addition, the Greek community comes together
every year to perform joint projects for both the campus and the community.
Whether raising money or donating time, service is an important part of the
Greek experience.
COMMON
QUESTIONS
Q:
I want to succeed academically. How will membership help those efforts?
A: The Greek
community at Washburn strives for academic excellence and improved scholastic
achievement. After all, the fraternity and sorority grade point averages
are higher than the all-men’s and all-women’s averages at Washburn! Every
chapter understands its members are students first; therefore, academic incentives
and recognition are given to those members who excel and improve their academic
standing.
Each chapter
has chosen a grade point average requirement that its members must maintain
to be in good standing. Chapters offer academic assistance for their members
such as individual assessments, study areas, high-speed Internet access, peer
tutoring, and study groups.
Q:
What is "Recruitment?"
A: The fraternities
and sororities organize a mutual selection process that allows you to get
acquainted with the Greek community. This process is called "Recruitment."
During this time, and throughout the semester, you are invited to visit the
chapters to learn what each group has to offer. Participating in Recruitment
is a great way to meet new people and does not obligate you join a sorority
or fraternity.
Q:
What will it cost to go Greek?
A: The financial
obligation that accompanies membership differs slightly from chapter to chapter.
Each group is self-supported, functioning from dues paid by its members. The
first year of membership is generally higher due to initiation fees. In succeeding
years, the average dues and fees range from $300-$400 per month. This covers
items such as room, meals, operating expenses (e.g., gas, electricity, water,
cable, cleaning supplies), socials, insurance, composite pictures, leadership
programs, alumni functions and new member recruitment.
Fraternity
and sorority houses offer a "home away from home." Living within
a chapter house furthers student growth and development, and provides much
of the comfort and support of a family environment. The costs of room and
board in fraternity and sorority houses are competitive with – if not below
– university rates. Each chapter will be able to provide you with specific
financial information during Recruitment.
Q:
In what activities are Greeks involved?
A: Greeks participate
in many activities on campus and in the community. Members enjoy social functions,
retreats, athletics, mixers and informal get-togethers. Chapters are active
in all areas of campus life and activities. Furthermore, members are strongly
encouraged to take part in other clubs and organizations. Greeks are the leaders
in many campus groups and are especially active in student government (WSGA).
This helps to make Greeks well-rounded students, as well as leaders in the
many facets of campus life.
Q:
How can I learn more?
A:
To learn more about Greek life at Washburn you can do several things:
We are always
happy to visit with you and your family about Greek life at Washburn. Thank
you for your consideration, and let us know if we can help in any way!
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