<p>My daughter has again been invited to join her campus chapter of Delta Omicron (she was invited last year but declined for $ reasons). She is considering it this year, aided by the fact I said we would pay if she joins. However, after looking over the “training materials”, she is having second thoughts. The potential inductees are asked to memorize a lot of material (the creed, a song, etc) as well as take a knowledge test. She’s more than capable of learning the material, but she’s not sure she wants to bother since her plate is already quite full this quarter.</p>
<p>I suggested she weigh the pros and cons from a long-term perspective, rather than the short-term. But I’m the first to admit, I don’t know if there is a long-term benefit. Thoughts?</p>
<p>I’m assuming you mean Sigma Alpha Iota. My son is a member of Phi Mu Alpha (the Sinfonians), the male equivalent.</p>
<p>While the memorization and historical background rituals are part of most fraternal and sorority type organizations, they are really just ways to bond the group, as well as to instill some background as to the original mission of the organization.</p>
<p>The music world is small, and memberships in these types of organizations are effective as a means of broadening your network of peers, colleagues and potential employers. My son has a network of “brothers” over a large geographic area, and to date it has been beneficial with gig offers, charity activities, and getting your name “out there”. I look at it as membership in a professional society, similar to membership in an instrument society, vocal organization, ASTA, MENC or MEISA. It may well serve to help open a door or two in the future.</p>
<p>Strength and activity level of local chapters is a direct result of the effort the individual members put in. It’s hard to assess how good a specific chapter can be.</p>
<p>I’d suggest she seriously consider joining. She may make career lasting contacts.</p>
<p>Just my $.02</p>