The fraternity and sorority experience promotes individuals, organizational, and community development. It also has a lot of tradition. Many sororities and fraternities designate their organization by using letters from the Greek alphabet, which actually have special meaning to members. Every sorority and fraternity has unique mottoes, Rituals, and creeds which unite the members in sisterhood or brotherhood, growth, achievement, service to the community, responsibility, and leadership. All sororities and fraternities are based on values, ethics, and standards.
We know that students and families often have questions about sororities and fraternities. Below, we've provided some answers to frequently asked questions and resources.
Benefits include building leadership skills, support with academics, and endless opportunities to engage in service. The fraternity and sorority experience is an excellent training ground for aspiring leaders. Many chapters organize training programs, host study hours, and offer a variety of educational resources. Some offer scholarships and awards to celebrate members' and non-members' academic successes.
Most students join a sorority or fraternity during their first semester in college; however, recruitment is open to all students (transfers, sophomores, juniors, and seniors). NPHC organizations do require students to have an Arkansas Tech GPA and a certain number credit hours before joining.
Making the decision to join a the Fraternity and Sorority Life community is an important one as it is a commitment for one’s entire college career. ATU strongly encourages student supporters to be involved in the decision making process.
Fraternity and Sorority Life at ATU provides students with a variety of opportunities to be involved in their campus community. With approximately four (4) percent of the campus population being in an active chapter, these invovled students plan philanthropy events, serve as student leaders in campus organizations, host social events, etc.
With this said, being a member of a fraternity or sorority does place demands on a student’s time. Our chapters place a strong emphasis on academics. New member semesters are often the most demanding, but there is always room for flexibility. The key concept for student supporters to remember during this time: communication! We encourage our ATU students to communicate their difficulties to the professors, and it is really no different within a fraternity or sorority. If your student experiences being overextended or overwhelmed, encourage them to talk to the Chapter President. Once those difficulties have been communicated, the chapter will make every effort to assist their newest member(s).
There are 13 Greek-letter organizations on campus. Each organization provides unique experiences, emphasizes values, service, philanthropy, and leadership within the community. Who is the "best" is a personal choice and it should be based on where a student feels most comfortable.
The new member period is a time for students to bond with other new members, active members, and learn about the organization's history and goals. Some new member classes elect officers, hold weekly meetings, organize study halls, and plan activities.
The best way to support ATU Fraternity and Sorority Life is by attending on-campus and chapter events with your student. If time does not permit to visit, then ask your student how you can help their particular chapter and/or the community in a different manner. Many supporters have resources that will support the efforts of groups in a variety of ways. If you are having trouble coming up with an idea, then start by offering to donate time and resources to the philanthropic events hosted by your student's organization.
While college students may act like they want total independence, most welcome the support and involvement of supporters in their college experience.
ATU, the State of Arkansas, and our national fraternities and sororities have strict guidelines and policies to prevent hazing. ATU educates leaders and new members about how to prevent hazing. As a supporter, keep an open line of communication with your student while they are at ATU. If at any time you have concerns about your student, please contact us.
Please visit ATU Student Handbook for information.
Whether it's stress, illness, or roommate issues, college students may need help throughout their time at Arkansas Tech University. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, Department of Campus Life, and Division of Student Affairs can provide support and assistance. We encourage you to reach out and contact us. We can connect students to the appropriate resources.
Call 479-968-0276 or visit the 2nd floor of Doc Bryan.
