While it is not all one big party, being part of Greek life is a great way for students to get involved in their community and make lasting friendships.
Going Greek is an adventure that never ends. Even after you graduate, you don't leave; you just become an alumni. It is more than T-shirts and recruitment videos. It is love.
Going Greek is friendship, charity, unpredictability, adventures, experiences, late-night talks, bigs and littles, deep conversations and study buddies. Greek is even 2 a.m. Wal-Mart runs. Greek life is leaning on someone when it feels like no one is there. It means no judgment.
Sororities and fraternities are families away from home. They protect you, cry with you and laugh with you. They are trustable and lovable. They will take you to the hospital when you are sick and make you laugh when you find out your broken phone is $500 to fix. They welcome everyone and no one is left without a friend or somewhere to call home. Sororities and fraternities defend and protect everyone, even if they are not a brother or sister. With four councils on campus, there is absolutely somewhere for everyone to go.
However, before stepping into this exciting journey, understand that going Greek is not always daisies and butterflies. This is the real world, and there will be people who will hate and criticize you and what you stand for. Good sisterhoods and brotherhoods, like the ones on campus, will not allow people like that to affect you.
If you think going Greek means life is going to be one big party, think again. Most fraternities and sororities have GPA requirements for initiation and requirements for staying in good standing. Organizations also have codes that members are expected to respect. Greek life is no cake walk. Be prepared to work to be part of such a great experience.
The most important aspect of Greek life is the philanthropy and charity events you are expected to participate in. The goal of Greek Life is to help our national and local causes. Personally, the best adventures I had so far have been during charity events. I really liked “Lambda Chi Watermelon Bust," the “Pie an AEPi” event, and running to Aldi to buy more than 50 cans of food for the homeless before time ran out during Greek Week.
{{tncms-asset app="editorial" id="005d1174-0c24-11e6-8063-2fc4f85d327a"}}
These are only some of the amazing opportunities that come with being a part of these great organizations that were started centuries ago. When you wear their letters, you represent the values those fraternities and sororities stand for. There are so many connections to be made and so many amazing people just waiting to meet you. I have met the most wonderful people, and I've been able to make connections with them on levels I never thought possible.
Within a year, I feel like being part of my sorority has made me an overall better human being. I am stronger, more hardworking, and so much more compassionate. I hope you get to experience these connections too.
— Erin Franczak is a sophomore studying journalism and author of the weekly column, "The ABCs of Greek Life". Have any questions about pledging? Email her at ef441614@ohio.edu or tweet her at @erin_franczak11.
