What exactly is a fraternity?

zephyr15
Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:02:01 +0000

Fraternities

At Cornell they serve two purposes, social and housing.

Day to day, you’re living with people with whom you presumably have some common interests. If you live in (which is generally required for at least one year) you will take most or all of your meals in the house. In addition, you will generally have paid a ‘social dues’ which goes towards parties and other social activities.

Living together – most fraternities require you to live in the house for at least one year. This is considered a plus, btw. You’re living with friends. The accomodations may be better than the dorms or off campus apartments.

Rushing/Pledging. Cornell has very strict policies against hazing or ■■■■■■■■ initiations.

Alcohol. Officially, if you’re underage, they’re not supposed to even serve you alcohol. Unofficially … things differ from house to house. Some of the fraternities have more of a drinking culture (if you don’t drink you probably don’t want to join these) others won’t care at all whether you drink. There are enough houses to cover a diversity of interests (including drinking).

Parties – It’s been a few years since I’m out. As a rule – there are some parties that are open to everyone, and others that are invitation only. However, whether you join a fraternity or not, you will have a social life.

Elitism – Some fraternities are elitist. Here’s the thing, you should be looking for a group of people who you like. You will reject many many fraternities because they’re not people you particularly care to live with or party with.

Biggest parts of Student life. Some Join, Some don’t. You can have a great experience either way.