Common Concerns from Parents
Q: My son is thinking of joining a fraternity. What is the process?
A: Joining a fraternity is a mutual selection process. For fraternities it is best for your son to visit several houses in order to find the best fit for him. After multiple visits the house may choose to offer your son a bid.
Q: What are the benefits for my student in joining a fraternity?
A: USF is a large campus, and joining a house allows your student to become part of a close, tight-knit support group within the larger campus. By being part of the Greek community, students have a chance to create bonds with people who have similar values and goals, while also finding leadership opportunities throughout the campus and the Tampa Bay community. Members say that they have met some of their best friends and created some of their favorite memories while being a part of their house.
Q: What are the financial obligations of Greek membership?
A: A common misconception is that being a part of a fraternity is financially burdensome and unaffordable. There are membership dues that your son will be responsible for paying each quarter, but the upside is that there are several opportunities to receive scholarships through national organizations, councils, and individual houses. Financial obligations are necessary to many student organizations, and many social organizations past the collegiate level. Sigma Chi brothers dedicate themselves to helping one another become more successful individuals so we may all more easilly achieve our goals. These benefits cost less then enrolling in another class, yet offer more then is offered in any lecture hall.
Q: Is hazing a concern for fraternities at the University of South Florida or Sigma Chi in particular?
A: USF, the Interfraternity Council and Sigma Chi have a zero tolerance policy with regard to hazing. No member is allowed to take part in any form of hazing as a new or current member of Sigma Chi. Hazing also is against the state law of Florida. Students who feel they are being subjected to hazing are urged to speak up immediately or to notify the Student Activities Office. If you suspect your student has been or is being hazed, you are also urged to call the Student Activities Office or the University Police.
Q: How much of a concern is alcohol at fraternities at the University of South Florida or Sigma Chi in particular?
A: Although the common stereotype is that fraternities enable binge drinking and reckless behavior, USF chapters work hard to dispel such stereotypes. Fraternities are required to follow very strict and detailed risk management policies, which are established by both their respective national organizations and governing councils. The Greek community at USF focuses on educating men and women on the dangers of binge drinking and of drug and alcohol abuse. They emphasize responsible drinking behaviors.
Q: Why are there some things fraternity members can’t talk about? What’s the big secret?
A: It is understandable that you as parents might be concerned if you hear that some of the things that go on during your son’s initiation are to be kept secret. Initiation into a fraternity is an exciting, yet serious, ceremony that conveys the purposes and special values of the respective fraternity. These ceremonies often are referred to as rituals. Greek houses pride themselves on the rituals that their chapters were founded upon. These rituals are full of the traditions and values that make the chapters unique. However, these rituals should not be confused with hazing, and other inappropriate activities. Fraternity initiation ceremonies are, in most cases, single day events.
Q: How will being Greek affect my student’s grades?
A: Some parents worry that the extra social events and responsibilities of being in a fraternity might take away from their student’s time for academics. Being Greek is a time commitment, but one of the core values of fraternities and sororities is academic excellence. Each chapter sets standards for academic expectations. If members do not meet their requirements, there are several resources available for students to receive assistance. Here at USF Sigma Chi organizes incentives and awards for the most improved GPA or the best GPA. Study exchanges and competitions are also very common. The Greek community realizes the importance of a quality education, and academic excellence is a priority.