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Frequently Asked Questions:
You may have some unanswered questions about fraternities. Here are some answers.
What is RUSH?
RUSH is a term which refers to VCU's formal recruitment period, often called "rush week," which usually consists of events and activities designed for members and potential members to learn about each other and the organization. Sigma Alpha Epsilon prefers the use of the term Recruitment rather than RUSH. The word RUSH tends to have a negative connotation when referring to fraternity life and thus we have chosen not to include it in our culture.
I've heard that fraternity members form really strong friendships . . . is that true?
You bet it is! The most important component of fraternity life is friendship. There's always a fraternity brother around to play a pickup game of basketball, to go on a 2:00 AM pizza run, or to help you out with that tough project. You'll never feel alone at college when you've got your fraternity brothers around!
I want to succeed academically. Will fraternity membership help or hinder my efforts?
Getting good grades in college can be tough. It takes hard work, commitment, and knowing the right resources. In the fraternity, you can use the network of members who already take advantage of campus resources such as the library, computer and math labs, and job placement centers.
While you are still ultimately responsible for your own success, many opportunities are opened up to you as a result of your membership. Most fraternities offer educational workshops on study skills, time management, stress management, study hall or study hours, in-house tutors, and awrd and incentive programs to help you achieve academic success. In addition, the progress of our new members academic endeavors will be monitored by the chapter's scholarship chairman. This will ensure academic success.
I'm a commuter student, am I able to join a fraternity?
Commuter students acutally make up the bulk of students here at VCU. VCU does not restrict commuter students. If anything, commuter students generally benefits the most from fraternity life because it helps make new connections even when you are on the go.
I heard fraternities emphasize leadership. What opportunities will I have in the fraternity?
In fraternities, you're in charge. The fraternity experience affords you the opportunity for hands on training in the operation of an organization. Chapter annual budgets can range from a few thousand dollars to well over half a million dollars. You will have a variety of opportunities and you will have alumni available to offer guidance in your efforts.
What about community service?
Whether raising funds for a charity or volunteering your time to help others in the community, you'll see that fraternities are committed to serving others. From volunteering at a local elementary school to blood drives, service is a fun and important part of the fraternity experience.
Sounds great, but how much time does it take?
Like any organization, fraternities need their members' support at meetings and activities. Through your fraternity involvement, you'll learn how to manage your time and balance your academic work and fraternity commitments.
Does it cost a lot to be in a fraternity?
Joining a fraternity or sorority does carry a financial commitment. Each chapter is self-supporting through dues paid by their members. When students join a fraternity or sorority, they also agree to pay dues and fees while in school to maintain membership. Although chapters may make accommodations for special needs, students should discuss the financial obligations with their parent(s) before deciding to join.
What about hazing?
Hazing is absolutely forbidden. You don't have to prove yourself. Each fraternity does have expectations of their members though. During recruitment, you'll want to ask each fraternity specific questions about what is expected of you as a new member. If you ever the victim of hazing or suspect that a friend is being hazed please contact any chapter president or any of our Greek Advisor. All conversations with our advisors will remain strictly confidential.
What types of guys join fraternities?
All types. While many men join as a freshman, many sophomores, juniors, and transfer students also join. Having members with different backgrounds and experiences is what makes the fraternity a great organization. Each individual gets to share his talents with the group.
What happens once I join?
You're going to make a lot of new friends you'll soon call brothers. It's an exciting time . . . electing officers, planning social events, going on retreats & brotherhood events, learning fraternity history . . . and getting to know more about yourself and your new brothers.
How do I go about joining a fraternity?
Fraternities are always seeking new members. Fraternities organize a process of meeting people and making friends called recruitment or "rush." Recruitment offers you the chance to meet other people and learn about what each fraternity offers its members.
Just like researching, visiting and choosing a college, you should seek out the fraternity that best fits your personality, needs and goals. Each fraternity has unique programs and strengths, yet all are primarily concerned with friendships, scholarship, leadership, and service to others. You'll find there is a fraternity for everyone.
(information courtesy of the North American Interfraternity Conference)
