Recently Greek Life has received a lot of negative media attention regarding a perceived hazing and binge drinking culture. However many of the people speculating over the fantasized negative aspects of Greek Life totally disregard the many good opportunities it gives college students. With formal recruitment right around the corner at many universities, it is important to be aware of the many positive attributes of Greek Life. Greek Life is an amazing way to be involved in college and make the best of your college experience. Keep reading to see the REAL reasons you should go Greek!
1.) Philanthropy- An amazing (and often overlooked) aspect of Greek organizations is the charitable work the members participate in on a national and local level. Fraternities and sororities all have a designated philanthropy which they strive to raise money for every year. Greeks raise over $7 million annually for various charities. Going Greek is an awesome way to be involved in philanthropy during your college years!
2.) Scholarship- Though myths circle Greek Life about students failing out of college due to near constant partying the opposite is actually true. Greeks, on average, have higher GPAs than non-Greeks and have a higher graduation rate. Additionally, 85% of Fortune 500 company executives were Greek and 69% of U.S. Presidents since 1877 were fraternity men. Many sororities and fraternities even have chapter study hours and scholarships available to their members as incentives to do well in school.
3.) Connections- Going Greek in college is a great way to begin developing connections for your professional career. Many executives in hiring positions were Greek in college so this is something you can easily bond with your potential boss over. Being Greek also looks great on your resume!
4.) Tradition- Many sororities and fraternities have been in existence for over a hundred years, being part of something so significant is an awesome, unique feeling. The long standing traditions of Greek organizations help you to feel like you are a part of something bigger than yourself.
5.) Leadership- Being in a sorority or fraternity gives you countless opportunities to take on a leadership position. Whether its serving on an the executive board, as a committee chairman or even on Panhellenic Council, Greek Life offers many wonderful leadership opportunities.
6.) Camaraderie- There are few things about Greek Life as important as the extremely close group of friends you’ll make by joining a Greek organization. No matter what situation you’re in you will have 100+ people in your corner. Date parties and socials are fun ways to get even closer with the members of your Greek organization and help keep your social schedule full.