What Is a Sorority Really Like? Your Top Questions Answered.
If you’re beginning college this fall, you might be asking yourself: Should I join a sorority? It’s a question that girls have faced for decades as they dive into this new, exciting season. In college, sororities are a controversial topic that raises many questions. Are sororities toxic? How much does it cost to join a sorority? Is it worth it to join a sorority? We’re answering these questions and more.
📘 GENERAL
What is a sorority, and what does it mean to be in one?
A sorority is a social organization meant for college girls, focused on fostering community and friendships on campus.
What are the different types of sororities?
Social sororities usually are the type you may see represented in movies or on television. These sororities are focused on sisterhood and friendship. But other sororities are represented across the United States, including:
- Professional sororities
- Service sororities
- Honors societies
- Religious sororities
- Ethnic sororities
🎀RUSH AND RECRUITMENT
What is sorority rush, and how does it work?
Sorority rush, often referred to as ‘rush week’, is the time of the year when potential new members visit the sororities on campus to learn about their members and values to decide which sorority is best for them.
How do I know which sorority is right for me?
When deciding which sorority to choose, ask yourself what it is you’re looking for in a sorority. Research each sorority website, what it stands for, its culture, and how its values align with yours. Interact with the sorority members and gauge how comfortable you feel with them!
While it’s normal to be nervous during an interview process like this, remember you’re interviewing them, too! If you feel like you would have to change yourself to get along with the members of a sorority, don’t choose them. Always be yourself.
Can I rush as a sophomore or transfer student?
Yes, you can rush as a sophomore or transfer student. Some sororities have preferences for freshmen students, but rushing as a sophomore has some advantages, like being more settled at your university or gaining a deeper understanding of the values of each individual sorority.
💸MONEY AND TIME
How much does it cost to join a sorority?
Sororities are not cheap. You can expect to pay anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands of dollars per semester for sorority dues. Membership dues are how much you pay per semester, and they vary depending on which university you are attending. Scholarships or financial aid may be able to help you pay for it.
What are sorority dues actually used for?
So, what is all of this money used for? Dues often cover:
- Social events and formals
- Philanthropy and service projects
- Leadership and educational programs
- Apparel and branding
If the sorority has a house, these funds are also allocated to housing and meal plans included in the sorority. At the University of Alabama, living in a sorority house can cost up to $9,000 per semester.
How much time does being in a sorority take each week?
You might also be wondering, what’s the time commitment for a sorority? After all, college should be about education first. A sorority will require a commitment of about 6-8 hours per week to meetings, events, and volunteer work..
🏠HOUSING AND LIFE
What is it like living in a sorority house?
There are many perks to living in a sorority house. Suppose you’ve chosen your sorority because they are the community you value and love. In that case, it’s much like living in a dorm, but with girls you’ve selected. Sorority houses typically have central locations on campus, making them convenient for walking to class or other school events. Also, many sorority houses include a house chef and a dining plan. Meaning you won’t have to go to your school’s dining hall for your meals.
Do you have to live in the house to be in the sorority?
It’s important to note that not all sororities require their members to live in sorority houses, so opting out could significantly reduce the membership dues.
💬REPUTATION VS. REALITY
Is it true that all sororities party a lot?
If you watched the latest season of The Summer I Turned Pretty, you may have noticed that the fraternity and sororities are throwing events with alcohol. This is actually not common at all. In fact, sororities across the country are actually considered dry, meaning there is no alcohol allowed in the house or at any sorority events on campus. Does this mean the sorority doesn’t have parties outside of the official club events? No. But being in a sorority does not necessarily mean you have to party. That being said, each sorority is different depending on the university. Keep in mind whether you go to a university that’s considered a ‘party school’ or what the sorority’s reputation is around campus before rushing.
Are sororities cliquey or toxic?
Each person’s personal experience might better address this question. While there is a darker side to sororities, they aim to connect college students with community, sisterhood, and service. Some sororities in the past have been accused of using toxic hazing or discrimination. Ultimately, each sorority or group will only be as toxic as its members. So, if you see red flags about the organization’s reputation, use your own discretion.
Read our blog post on The Dark Side of Sororities to learn more about this.
Is joining a sorority worth it for me?
Deciding whether to join a sorority or not is a very personal decision. If you’re struggling to decide, here are some things to consider:
Don’t let stereotypes keep you from making your own choices.
Do your own research, visit each sorority, and decide for yourself what you think of each organization. Don’t let an inaccurate movie portrayal keep you from the possibility of connection.
Ask yourself: Will this group of women help me grow into the woman I want to be?
College is a very formative time for a young person. And who you spend time with often determines what you’ll grow to reflect. Look at the leadership and girls in each sorority who are about to graduate. Do they reflect who you want to be in four years? If the answer is yes, consider rushing.
Lastly, if you decide sororities are not for you, that’s okay, too.
There might be pressure from your family or from the environment on campus to rush. It might feel like without a Greek club, you won’t have a social life. But this isn’t true. College offers so many opportunities to connect and grow lifelong friendships. Don’t get stuck in one box. Take this time to step out and explore each of your interests, join clubs, and discover what makes you, you!
