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What is Greek Life?

group photo of Sigma Epsilon

group photo of Sigma Kappa
Introduction

Greek life is the fraternity and sorority community on campus. The terms "fraternity" and "sorority" describe groups of men and women who join together to offer fellowship, academic support, leadership training, participation in campus activities, service to the community and University, and preparation for future careers. They are referred to as Greek chapters because they are named according to the ancient Greek alphabet. Most chapters at Cal State Fullerton are also affiliated with a national and international organization.

Greek life has a strong and rich tradition at hundreds of colleges and universities across the United States and Canada, as well as here at Fullerton. It offers many opportunities to meet people, promote academic achievement, contribute to the community through service and philanthropy projects, and develop leadership skills.

Leadership and Campus Involvement

Fraternity and sorority members hold a large number of campus leadership positions and participate in leadership and developmental seminars on a local and national level. There are numerous leadership opportunities available within individual chapters and the many affiliated organizations. Greek life also serves as a springboard to campus-wide involvement. (Link to names of campus-active Greeks on campus.)

Philanthropy

Sororities and fraternities recognize the need and concern throughout the year to raise money and donate time for their special philanthropies and service projects. Often the Greek community comes together to benefit worthwhile programs such as Camp Titan, as well as sponsoring community- based programs like Adopt-A-School. Each year, philanthropic events allow Greeks to contribute their time and effort in many ways and benefit the community by generating hundreds of hours of service and thousands of dollars in fund raising.

Social

Joining a fraternity or sorority is an excellent way to meet people and establish life-long friendships. Each organization plans social events to strengthen friendships within the chapter and allow for social interaction with members of other groups. Having a positive social environment provides a well-rounded college experience and eases the adjustment to a new environment.

Scholarship

Academic achievement is a priority for all fraternities and sororities as they seek to compliment the academic mission of Cal State Fullerton. Organized scholarship programs are offered by most chapters to help members and associates achieve their academic goals. Awards, scholarships, honor societies and other incentives exist as a further reminder of the importance of academics within the Greek community. When looking into joining a specific chapter, be sure to inquire about their scholarship program.

Finances

Each Greek letter organization is self-supported by dues paid by the members. As a new member, there are one-time fees assessed. After those initial payments, however, the only expenses are regular chapter dues and activity fees. Additional charges exist for living in chapter housing.  Financial obligations differ among chapters and are used to cover most social activities, operating expenses, and in many cases national/international organization dues, insurance, and Panhellenic and Interfraternity Council dues (if applicable). Payment plans are available in some chapters.

Fraternity and Sorority Life

Fraternity: Fraternity is a social experience based on the fundamental right of a free people to form voluntary associations. It is one of the enrichments of college life. Fraternities Exist Because They:

Provide a good democratic social experience.

Give value beyond college years.

Create, through their ideals, an ever-widening circle of service beyond the membership.

Develop the individual's potential through leadership opportunities and group effort.

Fill the need of belonging.

Mutual Choice: The young student who wants fraternity experience will find it possible to belong on most campuses today. Fraternity membership is a social experience arrived at by mutual choice and selection. Fraternity membership is by invitation.

Fraternities Continue Because: Young people feel a continuing need to belong. Parents appreciate fraternity values and standards and cooperate to make membership possible. College administrations, recognizing the values of fraternities, continue to welcome them on their campuses and to invite them to establish new chapters.

 

 

 

 
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