ORGANIZATION

Facts and Frequently Asked Questions

Students who join a fraternity or sorority are more likely to return to college the following year than students who choose not to join.

Following graduation, Greek-affiliated Alumni are more involved in civic organizations and contribute more financially to nonprofit organizations than non-Greek alumni. Throughout history, 48% of all U.S. Presidents, 42% of U.S. Senators, 40% of all U.S. Supreme Court Justices, 30% of U.S. Congress members, 30% of all Fortune 500 CEO's, 10% of those listed in Who's Who in America, and 3% of the U.S. Population have been GREEK!!!

National research data from the Center for Advanced Social Research at the University of Missouri, and The North American Interfraternity Conference

Frequently Asked Questions

How do students benefit from Greek Life?

More than any other single organization on campus, fraternities and sororities offer leadership opportunities, lifelong friendships, human service and philanthropic activities, cultural opportunities, social activities, scholastics, intramural sports, personal development, and group living environments, all wrapped up into one organization. Joining a fraternity or sorority chapter will help make the transition to college much easier. Developing a sense of belonging and making new friends in the chapter can make the campus seem much smaller.

How will joining a chapter now benefit students after college?

Many friendships made through the chapter will last into post-college years. Fraternities and sororities have national networks for its members that help with careers and job relocations. Membership in a chapter can be a lifelong experience that the member and fraternity or sorority enjoy together. Wherever a member ends up after college, chances are that he or she will be able to find an alumni chapter or other members of their fraternity or sorority in the area.

How are academics encouraged by Greek organizations?

When a student joins a fraternity or sorority, he or she becomes part of a larger group of students who have already made it through their first year at Cal Poly. Older members, who may have the same major as your student, can provide advice and assistance. Most chapters have a scholarship officer who initiates programs within the chapter to encourage high academic achievement. Ultimately, the responsibility for succeeding in the classroom is up to the individual student.

Are fraternities and sororities expensive?

The perception of fraternities and sororities is that they are only for 'well-to-do' students, but Greek membership is actually quite affordable, and the fees go to services that will enhance your student's college experience. Many students choose to work to help pay their dues to the chapter. To assist members, chapters may offer payment plans or scholarships. The Greek experience is an investment in your student's future. The skills and experience gained through participation in the chapter will continue to benefit members years after graduation.

Will working while in school conflict with participation in a fraternity or sorority?

Fraternities and sororities recognize that it is important for members to meet their financial obligations and that many students will work to help finance their education. Working students can still take advantage of the opportunities available in the Greek community.

How much time does it take?

The time commitment varies from chapter to chapter. The first quarter is the most intensive as new members learn the history of the organization and participate in activities that connect the student to campus. After initiation, members' commitments vary. Each chapter has weekly meetings and plans various events throughout the year (social, service, philanthropies, initiation). The more your student puts into the chapter, the more he or she will benefit from being a member.

What about hazing?

All national governing bodies for fraternities and sororities prohibit all forms of hazing. Hazing, or any activity that injures, degrades or disgraces any student, is not tolerated. All allegations are investigated. If you ever feel your student may be participating in or subjected to inappropriate activities, please contact the Coordinator of Fraternity & Sorority Affairs at (805) 756-5838.

Is there an alcohol policy?

Campus policy does not allow alcoholic beverages at any off-campus function hosted by a chartered Cal Poly fraternity or sorority, except when private service for members and guests is arranged by contract with a properly licensed distributor. Additionally, each national organization has policies and guidelines addressing the use of alcohol.

What is the role of family members?

Take time to find out more about the Greek community at Cal Poly. Ask questions and be supportive, allowing the student to make the best decision for themselves. Once he or she joins a chapter, learn the names and phone numbers of the chapter president, new member educator, and chapter advisor. Participate in events for families that are planned by the fraternity or sorority, and ask your student about his or her experiences.

How do students get involved?

Panhellenic Recruitment takes place the first weekend after classes begin in the fall. The Interfraternity Council sponsors recruitment events both in the fall and winter. Culturally-based fraternities and sororities' recruitment processes take place at various times and are determined by the individual organization. Information will be available on campus.

Where can I go to learn more?

Contact Greek Affairs at (805) 756-7270 with any questions or concerns. For more information look up the Student Life & Leadership website at http://studentlife.calpoly.edu/slal.html, or visit Cal Poly's Greek website at http://www.greeklife.calpoly.edu