Image by Texas A&M University-Commerce Marketing Communications Photography, Flickr
College years can be stressful. If you’re looking for something fun to do, you may consider joining a fraternity or sorority, where you get to make friends while attending great events, have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and connect with alumni networks. However, there can be some disadvantages too. Think carefully before joining a sorority or fraternity. Weigh the following pros and cons:
Pros
- Some frats and sororities offer scholarships. University can be expensive, which is why it would be helpful to obtain a scholarship. Joining a fraternity or sorority is a fun way to earn a scholarship. It doesn’t take nearly as much effort as writing an essay.
- You could get help finding a job. It is difficult to find a job these days. It could take a few months up to a few years to find one in today’s economy. It is beneficial to join a sorority or fraternity so you can build your contact network and find a job.
- You could make lifelong friends. If you enjoy meeting new people, being part of a sorority or frat is a good way to do so. A membership with a fraternity or sorority would mean you have highly educated, social people right at your fingertips.
Cons
- When joining a fraternity or sorority, you may have to deal with hazing. Some common hazing activities could potentially be disgusting or even illegal. Before signing up for a sorority or fraternity, you may wish to research them a bit further and find out if they have any hazing activities – and if you’re comfortable participating in them.
- Membership Fees. On top of paying for tuition and books, you may have to pay to enter a sorority or frat. The average membership fee for a sorority is $1,280 and the average membership fee for a fraternity is $605. This can be costly when you’re living on your own and have other expenses to pay for.
- Time Commitments. Sororities and fraternities demand much of your time. When your main priority is studying, this may be a barrier to academic achievement. You may wish to join a sorority or frat if you’re good at managing your time.
American musician Tom Petty once said,
I’ve learned one thing, and that’s to quit worrying about stupid things. You have four years to be irresponsible here, relax… You’ll never remember class time, but you’ll remember the time you wasted hanging out with your friends.
Joining a sorority or fraternity can be memorable, with lifelong friends and business contacts. Go ahead and sign up for one, but make sure you weigh the pros and cons first.