Should You Join the Greek Life?

By Lorraine Jazleene Biteranta on May 30, 2013

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When we first graduate high school, the endless opportunities of college are drilled into our minds by advisors, parents, and even friends. The hidden joys and downfalls of college, however, are often overlooked and are never explained. What are the benefits of joining a Fraternity or Sorority? Why do people go through hazing and torture just to become part of the Greek Life? Is it really worth it in the end?

When I was new to college, I was introduced to the Greek life rather quickly. I wasn’t into partying and I definitely never planned on becoming part of a fraternity. I was just walking a friend to class when someone stopped us and asked me if I would be interested in “little sissing” for his organization, which I responded “yes” to.

My role, as was the role of every female that little sissed for the fraternity (let’s call them Alpha Alpha Alpha, or AAA for short), was to offer support and comfort for the males who were pledging and to complete any side tasks that were given to us. The hazing process for the men was long and brutal, but with the support of the little sis, they were able to push through it.

Most of these males pledging were from terrible homes. They never got along with their parents and in most cases, their families were either emotionally or physically abusive. They chose the Greek Life because they sought an escape and a place to belong.

AAA was unique from other frats in that they not only valued brotherhood, but also education. Part of their hazing process was a few hours a week of study time, in which they were forced to do their homework and study for their classes. Unbelievable, right? But it’s true.

Before AAA, I was still finding my place in college. After I joined, I was able to branch out more, become more outgoing, and even go to my first (and only) college party. The men who joined who grew up with abusive families and didn’t have a space to call home also found a place where they belonged. Their grades rose and they now have a close-knit support system that will last forever.

So, why join the Greek Life? For me, I only stayed in it for about a month or two after installs. The party scene was not for me, and pretending I was something I wasn’t was really taking a toll on me. If you need a support system, or a second family to always have your back no matter what (and if you don’t mind partying from time to time), then the Greek Life is definitely for you!