Myths About Greek Life
Rumors and stereotypes about Greek Life are frequently spread on campus. Some people believe that Animal House, MTV Sorority Life and Fraternity Life, or The Skulls are what Fraternities and Sororities are all about. Below are myths and truths about Fraternities and Sororities.
Myth #1: Fraternities and sororities are not conducive to social and spiritual development.
Truth:
One of the things fraternities and sororities can be most proud of is their organized social calendar. There is a plethora of events designed to foster social interaction and interpersonal skills. Young men and women are encouraged to meet and interact with members of their own chapters and other chapters. Date parties, inter-chapter functions, and inclusive community service projects allow for networking and help to foster strong bonds of friendship.
Myth #2: Being a part of a Greek organization is more expensive than other organizations.
Truth:
One particularly prevalent myth about Greek Life is that being a member of a fraternity is incredibly costly. Many people outside of the Greek community actually refer to this belief by saying that "Greeks buy their friends". The irony in that statement is that it costs money to be a part of any organization, whether it is sports or clubs, or to retain any place of residence, such as in the residence halls.
Myth #3: Hazing is simply a reality among fraternities and sororities.
Truth:
Hazing is the most publicly fear concept associated with Greek life today. These fears are more than justified due to the fact that hazing is easily the most dangerous and destructive practice that an organization can take part in. Although hazing has been prevalent in many sports organizations and band activities as a form of "initiation", Greeks have been the focus of the majority of negative publicity. Although many people automatically associate the term "hazing" with the idea of mistreating or abusing pledges or new members, any member can actually be a victim of hazing. Hazing can be defined as singling out an individual or group of people and forcing them to do something that is psychologically, physically, or emotionally harmful or damaging.
Greek organizations nationwide have striven to eliminate hazing from their cultures through proactive approaches and strict enforcement of anti-hazing policies. Hazing is strictly prohibited at UW-La Cross.
Myth #4: Joining a Greek organization inhibits academic performance.
Truth:
Admittedly, fraternities and sororities have definitely moved away from their roots of purely academic organizations such as literary societies. However, the transition to social living groups does not necessarily mean that academics were thrown out the window.
Academic performance is encouraged by both all-Greek programming and individual chapter policies. Awards are given to chapters with the highest GPA's, and there are also restrictions within each chapter for members to participate. As with other activities, Greeks must maintain a certain GPA to be eligible to participate.