Fraternities and Sororities a Home away from Home
The fraternity or sorority can help
personalize your college experience by offering a scholastic support
system; hands-on experience in leading committees, managing budgets,
interacting with faculty and administrators: exposure to potential
careers through educational programs and discussions with alumni; the
opportunity to give back to the community through service projects; and
close friends who will cheer you on through successes and provide
support when times are tough.
Scholarship
This is one of the most important aspects
of college life. Academics are emphasized by all fraternity and sorority
chapters from first joining through graduation. Each fraternity and
sorority provides some form of scholastic assistance, such as, study
areas, tutoring, awards, study sessions and incentives such as
scholarships, to challenge members to reach their full academic
potential.
Fraternity and sorority members usually maintain a higher
grade point average than non-members. While sororities and fraternities
do not hold any magical keys to scholastic success, studies have shown
that members of Greek organizations are more likely to obtain a degree
than non-affiliated students.
Leadership
Fraternities and sororities exemplify
democracy in action. New members live and learn to work within these
communities. Officers within each chapter are elected to 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, many national organizations have regional and national
leadership conferences where students can learn a variety of leadership
skills. Fraternities and sororities provide a solid foundation in
leadership training that prepares members for the demands and
responsibilities needed for the future.
Community Service
Community service is an important aspect
of fraternity and sorority life. It is safe to say that no other segment
of the student population has dedicated more time and resources, or has
raised more money for charity than the members of our Greek community.
From volunteering in elementary schools, to giving bloods, to raising
money for charities such as the American Heart Association, or Saint
Jude Children's Hospital, MSU's fraternities and sororities are lending
a helping hand.
Social Life
For many students, the Greek social life
helps to make college a more fulfilling experience. Greek organizations
provide a calendar of social activities including formals, homecoming,
mixers, talent competitions, and other special events. Sororities and
fraternities can offer more of a family atmosphere and go beyond
ordinary friendships - often lasting a lifetime.
Athletics
Greek organizations sponsor teams to participate in various intramural
sports and in other fraternity and sorority philanthropy tournaments.
Some of these sports include flag football, soccer, basketball, tennis,
softball, and floor hockey. Fraternities and sororities also have
members that are varsity athletes. Football players, volleyball players,
and cheerleaders receive great support from their bothers and sisters.
Members of fraternities and sororities provide school spirit at MSU.
Alumni Involvement
The role of the alumni as advisor or national Greek officers and
consultants is substantial. Lifetime friendships expand beyond
individual chapters to include all members of the national and
international Greek Life community.
Alumni organizations help students
network for potential employment opportunities after graduation, and
keep in touch through newsletters, correspondence, meetings, and special
alumni events.
