Why should I go Greek?
Welcome to Virginia Tech and the many opportunities that this school has in store for you. Early in your college career you will be faced with numerous decisions which will change the course of your college years. Among the decisions which you will face is whether or not to join a fraternity. You are encourgaed to carefully weigh your alternitives and decide to join. If so, you will soon discover that your decision to rush was the best decision you have ever made.
Membership in a fraternity will greatly enhance your life and leave you with many fond memories when you graduate. Fraternities not only provide you with social opportunities, but also allow for personal development, close friendships, leadership opportunities, academic achievements, and athletic competitions. In general, each fraternity offers unique experiences which cannot be matched.
We welcome your decision to explore Greek life, and hope that you strongly consider becoming a part of one of the various organizations. Keep in mind that rushing does not mean that you must join a fraternity here, it just means that you are exploring the option. However, we do hope that you decide to become a part of the proud Greek tradition here at Virginia Tech.
Read on to discover the benefits of joining a college fraternity.
Athletics
Here at Tech, we have a diverse competitive intramural program which both Greeks and non-Greeks enjoy. Many fraternities participate in football, soccer, water polo, softball, and basketball just to name a few. Traditionally the Greek teams have been among the strongest on campus in these sports. Through athletics the bond of brotherhood is strengthened as the men compete together to reach a common goal. In addition, the Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils, along with the individual Greek organizations, sponsor many athletic events and tournaments in which Greeks compete.
Brotherhood
The bond of friendship between brothers is strengthened throughout the college career and continues to remain strong throughout their lifetime. This unity and friendship is not only within the local chapters, but also spreads to chapters across the country. As the bond is not by birth, and rather by choice, the friendship and dedication are even stronger. Fraternities strive to combine the common goals and ideals of brotherhood with the unique experiences of the individual to create a meaningful whole.
Leadership
Fraternities foster the necessary leadership skills to make active and effective leaders. Greeks hold leadership positions in many student organizations; in fact, almost 90% of all student leadership positions across campus are held by Greeks! As a result, Greeks dramatically improve campus life for all students here at Tech. Chapters offer leadership positions within their organizations as well as open doors to other opportunities across campus. This gives Greeks invaluable skills which will continue to be an asset in college and beyond.
Academics
Your first priority as a student at Virginia Tech is academics. A common concern of many students is that joining a fraternity may take away from study time. In actuality, fraternities help create academically successful students. Fraternities set strict guidelines for their members and to help make these goals attainable, the organizations offer help in the form of support, personal guidance, and incentives. It is no wonder that the all Greek QCA is consistently higher than the non-Greek QCA. In addition, IFC encourages academic excellence through scholarship programs, individual awards, and chapter awards. Fraternities also teach members to act responsibly and to build communication skills which will benefit members for the rest of their lives.
Service
One of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of the Greek life is the aid we bring to the community and school through service projects. Service gives a sense of true satisfaction that can only come from helping others. Greeks raise money and contribute their time to various organizations like the Boy Scouts of America, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and Special Olympics. In fact, most fraternities have philanthropies that they serve on a continuing basis. These organizations greatly appreciate the 15,000 volunteer hours they receive each year from Greek organizations at Virginia Tech.
Social
One of the most enjoyable and identifiable parts of Greek life at Tech is the social life. Fraternities regularly attend formal dances, mixers with sororities, informal parties, theme parties, tailgates, and other outdoors activities. This gives us a welcome relief from our academic studies. These events also help to build and maintain meaningful and personal relationships. Even more importantly, Greeks are able to learn the social graces which will benefit them for years to come.