Famous Fraternity Brothers
Pictured above are famous people who belonged to fraternities, who credit much of their foundation to the lessons learned as members of a social fraternity. From left to right, John Wayne, Brad Pitt, David Lettreman, Drew Brees, Tom Selleck. Not pictured but notable, Ronald Reagan, George H. and George W. Bush, J. Willard Marriott, Woody Harrelson, and Mike Holmgren (Green Bay Coach). This is just a few, there are hundreds more.
Fraternity FAQ's
I've heard that fraternity members form really strong friendships . . . is that true?
You bet it is! The most important component of fraternity life is
friendship. There's always a fraternity brother around to play a pickup
game of basketball, to go on a 2:00 AM pizza run, or to help you out
with that tough project. You'll never feel alone at college when you've
got your fraternity brothers around!
I want to succeed academically. Will fraternity membership help or hinder my efforts?
Getting good grades in college can be tough. It takes hard work, commitment,
and knowing the right resources. In the fraternity, you can use the
network of members who already take advantage of campus resources such
as the library, computer and math labs, and job placement centers.
While you are still ultimately responsible for your own success, many
opportunities are opened up to you as a result of your membership. Most
fraternities offer educational workshops on study skills, time
management, stress management, study hall or study hours, in-house
tutors, and award and incentive programs to help you achieve academic
success.
What about community service?
Whether raising funds for a charity or volunteering your time to help others in
the community, you'll see that fraternities are committed to serving
others. From volunteering at a local elementary school to blood drives,
service is a fun and important part of the fraternity experience.
I heard fraternities emphasize leadership. What opportunities will I have in the fraternity?
In fraternities, you're in charge. The fraternity experience affords you
the opportunity for hands on training in the operation of an
organization. Chapter annual budgets can range from a few thousand
dollars to well over half a million dollars. You will have a variety of
opportunities and you will have alumni available to offer guidance in
your efforts.
Sounds great, but how much time does it take?
Like any organization, fraternities need their members' support at meetings
and activities. Through your fraternity involvement, you'll learn how
to manage your time and balance your academic work and fraternity
commitments.
Does it cost a lot to be in a fraternity?
Fraternities are not expensive. Each fraternity is self-supported from dues paid by
its members. If housing is offered, fraternity lodging and meals are
competitive with other housing options.
What about hazing?
Hazing is absolutely forbidden. You don't have to prove yourself. Each
fraternity does have expectations of their members though. During
recruitment, you'll want to ask each fraternity specific questions
about what is expected of you as a new member.
What types of guys join fraternities?
All types. While many men join as a freshman, many sophomores, juniors, and
transfer students also join. Having members with different backgrounds
and experiences is what makes the fraternity a great organization. Each
individual gets to share his talents with the group.
What happens once I join?
You're going to make a lot of new friends you'll soon call brothers. It's an
exciting time . . . electing officers, planning socials, going on
retreat, learning fraternity history . . . and getting to know more
about yourself and your new brothers.
How do I go about joining a fraternity?
Fraternities are always seeking new members. Fraternities organize a process of
meeting people and making friends called recruitment or "rush."
Recruitment offers you the chance to meet other people and learn about
what each fraternity offers its members.
Just like researching, visiting and choosing a college, you should seek out
the fraternity that best fits your personality, needs and goals. Each
fraternity has unique programs and strengths, yet all are primarily
concerned with friendships, scholarship, leadership, and service to
others. You'll find there is a fraternity for everyone.
(Information courtesy of the North American Interfraternity Conference)