Does it cost a lot to be a sorority member?
Though financial commitment is necessary, that commitment comes with many benefits. Furthermore, some of the sororities will offer payment plans. To know the cost for each individual sorority, please refer to chapter pages.
What is the time commitment for recruitment week?
Each night of recruitment will last 4-5 hours and it is strongly encouraged that you attend every night of recruitment; however academic commitments, such as class or internships must come first. Every effort has been made to avoid conflicts with class time, but some are unavoidable.
Will being in a sorority affect my grades?
The all-sorority grade point average consistently exceeds the all-female average. Sororities offer programs and incentives to help members achieve scholastic success.
Will I still be able to work while in a sorority?
In today's world, very few students can attend college without outside employment. Chapters recognize this and work with members to meet financial and attendance obligations. Many students find sorority membership an advantage, in that networking with alumnae sometimes produces job possibilities.
What is a recruitment counselor/Pi Chi?
Recruitment Counselors will be assigned to you and a small group of other potential members. They are current members of the sorority community who temporarily leave their chapters behind to help you find your perfect fit. They have no contact with anyone from their chapter from June 1 until recruitment is over. Please do not pressure her into telling you her chapter affiliation. At the end of recruitment, all Pi Chi's will reveal the chapters they belong to and rejoin their sisters on Bid Day. These women are trained to assist students who are going through the recruitment process. They are here to guide you through and answer any questions you may have. Your Pi Chi's are here to help you!
What are some potential recruitment violations?
Verbal bids- A verbal bid is any kind of statement that makes a reference to you becoming a member of their chapter. Invitations are to be only extended through your Recruitment Counselors on Bid Day.
Outside Contact- Any pro-active outside contact (phone calls, social networking, gifts, letters, visits) from undergraduates or alumnae is strictly prohibited. Sorority members may only recruit during their formal recruitment process but are able to still have casual conversation with you during classes.
Will I be hazed?
No. The Panhellenic Council, Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life, and University all have strict policies against hazing. Additionally, hazing is illegal in the state of South Carolina. The Office works diligently to educate chapters on how to hold fun, safe, and educational new member periods and all plans are approved by the Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life and the Vice President of Student Affairs. Should you ever feel like you are being mistreated throughout your new member process, do not hesitate to contact the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life or the Dean of Students.
How much does sorority recruitment cost and where does my money go?
The registration fee is $100 until August 26th at 11:59PM, and $125 after. Recruitment fees pay for transportation, administrative and printing costs!
How do sororities decide who to invite back to each party?
As the number of parties is reduced round to round, so is the number of women each sorority is allowed to invite back. Everyone who participates in recruitment has something different to offer a sorority, but sororities must release some potential members, just as you will have to make decisions about some sororities. In deciding which potential member to invite back and which to dismiss, each chapter has its own process. Great lengths are taken by chapters to ensure a fair process and equal consideration for each potential member.