Fraternity and Sorority Life

Fraternities and sororities are groups of individuals of similar interest bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through rituals that are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth, and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities. Membership in a Greek letter organization is a lifetime obligation. The choice to join the sorority community means working with a group of women who can exchange and stand for common goals and ideas while being held to a higher standard than other college students.

The Greek experience during the college years is a gateway to many rewards and connections later in life. Each chapter develops a special bond called sisterhood. Both are nurtured thorough common work, laughter, service projects, intramurals and the shared success and frustrations of all. Throughout the student's life, membership will be an unwritten bond of friendship no matter what course his/her life takes.

All of the fraternities and sororities at RIT are chapters of inter/national organizations. Each chapter falls under one of three governing councils: Interfraternity Council (IFC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), and College Panhellenic Council (CPC). All RIT recognized fraternities and sororities are a part of one of these councils and are held accountable to their policies, rules, and regulations.

There is a different process for joining organizations, depending on the council under which the organization falls. Panhellenic Recruitment starts during the beginning of the Fall or Spring Semester. Typically at the beginning of the semester organizations have events in which potential members can meet sisters from all 5 chapters. The Interfraternity Council also has similar recruitment as CPC.

Many of our MGC organizations conduct intake in order to bring in new members to the organizations but there are also several who host more open recruitment practices. The best way to know is to reach out to a member of the organization and ask what their process looks like. The organizations host events throughout the year to be able to get to know students. If a student has interest in possibly joining an organization it is best to first do some research. Follow the link on this page to the chapters page where you can find information about all of the MGC organizations on a national level. After you find an organization that fits well with your values, reach out directly to a member of an organization and set up a time to meet one on one to talk about the possibility of joining.

You can join whenever you feel ready to be part of a chapter. It is very common for freshman to join IFC and CPC, it is less likely for MGC chapters.

Each chapter's dues are diverse and new member dues are often higher than annual dues because new members pay for their pins, national dues, and insurances. Per year from $300 - $1000.

Your first step should be to do your research. It is good to look at all the chapters on campus in order to find the best fit for you.

Recruitment is a series of events designed to get to know the different brothers and sisters. At the end of recruitment week, if chosen, you will receive a bid (invitation) to join.

RIT does support housing for fraternities and sororities both in the residence halls and in Greek Free-standing Housing within the Apartment Area. You should inquire about the housing requirements of each chapter during the recruitment process prior to accepting a bid of membership so there are no surprises once you have become a member of a fraternity or sorority.

Many students involved in the RIT Greek community are also employed outside of the classroom. In today's world, the reality is that only the lucky few can afford to attend college without outside employment. Fraternities and sororities recognize that it is important for members to be able to meet their financial obligations and that many students will work to help finance their education. Working students can still take advantage of the opportunities available through the Greek community.

It's more likely that a fraternity or sorority will help your grades. When a student joins a fraternity or sorority, they becomes part of a larger group of students who can provide assistance in most of the courses you will be taking. There are few other places where a student can gain access to the variety of resources that the Greek community can offer. Ultimately, the responsibility for succeeding in the classroom belongs on the individual but with the broad range of resources available within the Greek community, students are more likely to achieve their academic potential.

Fraternity and sorority members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors.

In addition, all Greek organizations at RIT are part of a national organization which offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers. Professional staff from the University are employed to assist and monitor the activities of Greek organizations.

Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son or daughter as they meets people through the recruitment process. Also, be an active parent during your child's years in a fraternity or sorority. Encourage and support your child, and if you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the professional staff that work with fraternities and sororities at RIT mentioned above.