1. How and when do I join a sorority?

 

Panhellenic sororities have two forms of Recruitment. Formal Recruitment takes place in the beginning of the fall semester. Registration is online. Panhellenic sororities also have informal recruitment in January, however not all organizations participate. Panhellenic does host an informal session regarding Spring recruitment. The vast majority of women who join Panhellenic groups join in the Fall. National Panhellenic Council (NPHC) groups have their own forms of recruitment, called intake, later in the school year. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life recommends that you join a sorority when it is most comfortable for you.

 

2. What do I wear?

 

Check out the pictures including in this website as well as the Dos and Don'ts. Remember, the days are going to be long and hot! Your main concern should be comfort as you will be doing a great deal of walking and standing in the sun.

 

3. What happens at a recruitment party?

 

A recruitment party is the time set aside for prospective members to learn more about individual chapters and for chapter members to learn more about potential new members. Potential new members will meet and talk to various members of the chapters, see skits and videos, and tour the houses. Remember, members are just as nervous about meeting new people and making a good impression as you are. They are concentrating on portraying a favorable image of their chapter as much as you are concerned about positively representing yourself. Most women are meeting you for the first time and will need to ask the same "get to know you" questions. Don't be shy. The more you get to know the chapters and vice-versa, the easier it will be to select the chapters which are right for you.

 

 

4. What if I cannot make it to a recruitment event? 

 

There is always a possibility that a potential new member may become ill or have something happen to limit her participation in recruitment. Whatever the situation, don't worry. Alert your Recruitment Guide and she will help you with whatever you need. The individual chapters are very understanding and will make the appropriate exceptions in these cases. To prevent illness, we recommend you eat before starting the day and feel free to ask for water or a drink when you are thirsty. Also, remember that the days are long, so get plenty of rest.

 

5. I have a schedule conflict during recruitment week. Can I still participate?

 

Greek Life will work with any woman who has a campus related conflict such as marching band practice, dance team, cheer, or any of the varsity athletic teams. We do not make special accommodations for work conflicts. If you have any questions regarding this policy, please contact the Office of Greek Life as soon as possible. No later than September 5th, would be preferred.

 

6. Are the chapter houses wheel chair accessible?

 

Yes, there are a limited number of chapter houses that are wheel chair accessible, but most of the houses are not. If you need special accommodations for physical accessibility please contact the Greek Life office. Please contact the Greek Life office about other special accommodations including dietary needs and sign language interpreters, large print or Braille. Requests for special accommodations must be made no later than September 1.

 

7. How does the recruitment process work?

 

Formal membership recruitment begins the third week after the fall semester begins. Each day, you will attend parties at various sorority houses, meeting women from each chapter and finding the chapter in which you could best see yourself. As the days go on, you will attend fewer parties and spend longer periods of time at each party, giving you the opportunity to narrow down your choices and devote more time to the chapters with which you feel the strongest connection. The chapters, in turn, will be participating in this "mutual selection" process and looking for the girls who best embody their own ideals.

 

8. Where can I find a sorority recruitment registration, and what does it cost for me to register?

 

You can find a sorority recruitment at fresnostate.edu/greeklife. The fee for applying is $55.00. This fee covers your transportation and meal expenses for the week. After you have registered be sure and check your email for important information about the next step!

 

9. How do letters of recommendation work? Do I need one for each chapter?

 

Letters of recommendation from sorority alumnae are helpful in the recruitment process but not necessary. Each chapter has its own policy regarding these letters. Many chapters find them helpful in learning information about you that may not be evident from your application. However, personal contact at each chapter during sorority recruitment is the best way for sorority members to get to know you.

 

10. Is there anyone who will help me throughout the week?

 

A recruitment guide willl help you throughout the week in knowing where to go and what to expect, and she will also serve as an advisor or confidante if you have any questions or concerns about the recruitment process. Your Recruitment Guide will be in charge of a Recruitment Group composed of other women who are also participating in recruitment. These groups are an excellent way to meet and bond with others going through recruitment.

 

11. I'm a Legacy. Does that mean I'm guaranteed a spot in that sorority?

 

No, each chapter has their own policy regarding legacies (at most chapters you are a legacy if your mother or sister was in the chapter; other chapters include grandmothers or aunts as well). Some chapters may have enough legacies going through recruitment to fill an entire pledge class. Being a legacy to a chapter is helpful, but will not necessarily guarantee you a place in that chapter.

 

12. How do I get a letter of recommendation and where do I send it?

 

Letters of recommendation are great but not required to go through formal recruitment. The forms for letters of recommendation can be accessed through the specific chapter's national website. If you find an alumni of a certain sorority who is willing to write one for you they just need to fill out the form and mail it directly to the sorority house. Mailing addresses can be found under the chapters tab.

 

 

*Here are some more FAQ's from Fresno State Website:

FAQ's Greek Life