FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are fraternities and sororities?
Fraternities and sororites are Greek-letter societies for men and women that have encouraged high academic standards, community service, and assisted young people with character and leadership development since 1824.

What do fraternities and sororities do on campus?
All members of fraternities and sororities are encouraged to participate in campus activities. Members are involved in nearly every campus organization and aspect of campus life. Many members hold positions in their chapter and other organizations on campus. Each chapter has members who compete in UM-St. Louis intramural sports.

How much does it cost to be in a fraternity or sorority?
Each chapter at UM-St. Louis costs an average of $200 per semester. Other costs include pledging and initiation fees, which are one time only fees to be paid before you initiate at the end of the semester. These fees are mandated by and paid to the national headquarters of the individual chapter. all the Greek social organizations at UM-St. Louis have finance plans that will help cater to your financial needs.

Will my academics suffer when I am in a fraternity or sorority?
Absolutely not! Each chapter has its own scholastic program and mandates that each member of the chapter maintain a minimum grade point average to remain active in the chapter. Older members are willing to help younger members in any subject that they may need assistance with. Most chapters have awards they give out to the members with the highest GPA.

What are the advantages of being in a fraternity or sorority?
Along with the benefits of support, encouragement, and frienships that last a lifetime, fraternity and sorority membership offers many practical benfits to its members. All groups offer scholarships, loans, and other financial aid to members. Members of fraternities and sororities have numerous opportunities to develop leadership skills by attending seminars, holding officer and committee positions within the chapter, and serving as a role model for younger members. Through volunteering in the community and on campus, members of fraternities and sororities develop the self worth that comes from serving others. They also offer a lifetime of networking opportunities with alumni.

What about hazing and alcohol use?
The University of Missouri - St. Louis states that any and all forms of hazing by any member, shall be banned. The University of Missouri - St. Louis is opposed to any situation created intentionally to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarassment, harassment, or ridicule. University of Missouri - St. Louis regulations and laws of the State of Missouri forbid hazing.

The University of Missouri - St. Louis prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages in membership recruitment and Bid Day festivities. Each chapter at the University of Missouri - St. Louis abides by Missouri State Law and forbids all alcohol use by members under the age of 21 years at any and all chapter functions. The use of alcohol during formal recruitment is strictly prohibited. Any student found in violation of this policy will be dismissed from the recruitment process.

What is Fall Recruitment?
Fall Recruitment is the time period designated for organized events held by each fraternity and sorority for membership recruitment. This is the only time of the academic year that you will have the chance to meet all groups during the same period of time.

Activities during Recruitment Week include visits with each of the chapters. The atmosphere is casual and friendly. You will spend time meeting and talking with every member from each chapter. Through this process you will decide which fraternity or sorority is best for you.

On the last day of Recruitment Week, you may be invited to join a fraternity or sorority by receiving a bid. After bids are issued, there will be chapter activities to help you get better acquainted with your new brothers or sisters!