Frequently Asked Questions
How much of a time commitment is involved?
This depends upon your willingness to get involved and make a difference. Like the time old cliché, what you put into it, you get out of it. Like any organization, the fraternity or sorority will have general expectations of you, e.g. short formal meetings once a week. Through your fraternity or sorority involvement, you'll learn to manage your time and balance your academic load with work and social commitments.
If I attend a recruitment event, do I have to join or can I change my mind?
Recruitment is an excellent way to find out more about Greek Life at UW-L and to meet many new people. Going to a recruitment event does not commit you to joining. Recruitment is a process that allows us to get to know about you, but it is also just as a much about you getting to know us. We want you to be a part of something you'll enjoy and participate in. If it's not your thing, than it's just not your thing.
Isn't joining a Greek organization just like paying for your friends?
Like any other organization, you pay dues to be a member or a Greek organization. Dues are very affordable and often there are payment plans available. Dues fund social activities, recruitment events, philanthropic endeavors, housing and National Headquarters (generally for insurance). You support the things you feel are important in your life, whether with your time or your money. The friendships are free.
What are your policies about drugs/alcohol use in the Greek system?
The social aspect of Greek Life is one of the major reasons that many students get involved in fraternities and sororities; however, alcohol and substance abuse are unhealthy and inconsistent with Greek values and ideals. All fraternities and sororities are expected to uphold state, county and city laws, as well as university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol.
Should I be worried about any hazing/initiation practices?
Hazing is absolutely forbidden. You don't have to prove anything to others. During the time that you are considering joining a fraternity or sorority, be sure to ask pointed questions about the expectations of new members. If you do join an organization and feel something is not right or if you feel uncomfortable, contact the Greek Advisor at the Office of Student Activities or the national organization of the local chapter.
How will going Greek benefit me academically?
Scared to ask your professor for help? Does your roommate annoy you to the point where you can't study? Not sure what class to take next semester or which professor is the best? By joining a sorority or fraternity, you will have a network of people at your fingertips. If they can't help you, they know someone who can. Join our study groups and keep on top of what is important; doing well academically and graduating!
Are all fraternities and sororities like the ones I see on MTV?
Absolutely not! The groups featured on MTV are local organizations at institutions that maintain little or no control of the Greek Community. "Pledge Houses" are sensationalism created for MTV shows and are definitely not part of the Fraternity/Sorority Community at UW-La Crosse.