Greek life is arguably one of the most fascinating aspects of the college experience. With phenomena like TikTok’s “Bama Rush” becoming increasingly popular, millions tune in to watch countless college freshmen document their joys, trials, tribulations or even outfits of the day throughout the rushing process. The University of Alabama’s rushing process is having a documentary made about it.
But, if you’re like me, you might be wondering what makes these groups so special? What exactly do they do? Why are some students willing to pay thousands of dollars to join?
I decided to ask our residential experts on sorority and fraternity life: Upper School teachers who were a part of Greek life during their undergraduate years.
Mr. Henderson, who teaches ninth-grade U.S. History, was a Phi Beta Sigma at Southern University, an HBCU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, whose mission is “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.”
Overall, he feels that his time in his fraternity was pretty positive.
“[The experience was] difficult at times, but the idea of being a part of an organization that was created for service to the community was something to be proud of,” Henderson said.
Like Mr. Henderson, other teachers felt that their Greek experience was great. Mrs. Wyatt, a social studies teacher, was a Delta Zeta at Florida State University. Their mission was to provide assistance to those who are hard of hearing.
“I had the time of my life and made life-long friends,” Wyatt said.
But, for others, the experience wasn’t something they reflect back on fondly. Mrs. Horder: an English teacher who was an Alpha Delta Pi at the University of Virginia, felt that her time in Greek life wasn’t as genuine as she had hoped.
“I didn’t love [my experience]. My connection to the other women felt forced and inauthentic even though they were lovely people,” Horder said.
But, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s Greek life experience is different. For those who want to rush, but are nervous about the process, the best thing to do is just stay true to yourself.
“As with any building of relationships, you are looking for a community that supports your goals and values. You are not looking for a community that requires or pressures you to change your goals and values,” Mr. Daugherty said.
