Why Pledge?
Why pledge? Members benefit from the structured setting, the opportunity to form deep and abiding attachments not only to those friends in your Greek orbit but to the ideals on which your group is based.
A substantial percentage of America’s public servants and business leaders were active members of Greek life. That’s because Greek life traditionally emphasizes service and leadership. It’s also a family affair – many members join Greek communities that their parents and grandparents joined. Once people affiliate with a Greek group, they often develop a lifelong identity with it. This identity is strengthened by the symbols associated with one’s group – the Greek letters that represent its name – and all the trappings, such as pins, rings, clothing, banners, and so on. Once a Sigma Phi, always a Sigma Phi!
National and international Greek groups have chapters on thousands of campuses, with millions of past and active members, and each school may host quite a few. There are also home-grown groups on your campus.
Remember, though, that not all Greek groups have equal privileges and benefits. A fraternity, sorority, or frarority must comply with strict regulations in order to be recognized by a school. If you choose to join a non-recognized group, be sure you are thoroughly familiar with your school’s rules, because your academic standing could be jeopardized if your group runs afoul. Some schools have a separate Office of Greek Life, while others oversee Greek life through the SA office.