What are some proven benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority?

• Fraternity and sorority members were significantly more engaged than non-members, reported greater gains in learning, and were more satisfied with their college experiences. (Pike, 2020)
• Membership in a fraternity or sorority is associated with greater involvement in curricular and cocurricular activities, promotes student learning and development, and promotes satisfaction with the college experiences. (Pike, 2020)
• Fraternity and sorority affiliated students report higher positive mental health scores. (Biddix, Assalone and Grace, 2021)
• Affiliated alumni had great experiences in college...that helped them feel more connected to their schools... and find great jobs... and live great lives after graduation... (Gallup, 2021)
• Affiliated alumni are more likely than nonaffiliated alumni to be satisfied with their lives. Affiliated alumni are more likely than nonaffiliated alumni to be thriving in the five aspects of wellbeing. (Gallup, 2021)

How will my student benefit from joining a fraternity or sorority at MTSU?

Fraternities and sororities are groups of men and women who come together to form a personal network of individuals with similar ideas, interests, and a mutual pursuit of a well-rounded college education. Advantages include:

• A support group to help make the adjustment to college life easier
• Scholastic resources to help student achieve their academic goals
• Leadership skills acquired through hands-on opportunities
• Encouragement to get involved and maximize their potential on campus
• Opportunities for active participation in community service projects

How will joining a Greek organization affect my student’s academic pursuits?

Sororities and fraternities serve as a great resource for students academically, through study hours and tutoring programs. Most chapters require a high grade point average for initial membership into the organization. Please note that most chapters have set their membership requirements higher than a 2.5. Each semester, FSL chapters outrank their unaffiliated peers with regard to grade point average.

My student needs to have a job while in college. Can they still join!

YES! The vast majority of our members maintain a job while on campus - whether to help pay for their tuition, living expenses, chapter dues or just to have a little extra spending money. Chapters will work with their members regarding time committment and work obligations.

What are the social aspects of fraternity and sorority membership?

The Middle Tennessee State University Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life believes that the FSL community should be a place where your student can foster healthy friendships that last beyond their college careers and have fun, social experiences while they are an undergraduate student. With that being said, FSL community at MTSU has taken great strides toward creating a responsible and safe environment for its members. All FSL organizations are held accountable to the MTSU Student Code of Conduct and Tennessee State Laws, as well as their individual organization’s Risk Management Policies.

Is hazing a part of the Greek culture at MTSU?

MTSU has a zero-tolerance policy regarding hazing that is outlined in the MTSU Student Code of Conduct, and is consistent with Tennessee state law. Hazing includes any activity that subjects members to harassment, ridicule, intimidation, physical exhaustion, abuse, or mental distress. Hazing is contrary to the purposes of the Greek community and the University. If you sense your student may be participating in inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you should contact the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

What is my role as a parent/guardian?

Be involved in the process!

• Encourage your son or daughter to attend as many campus events as possible during their first semester on campus. The Connection Point program provides many free events for your student to attend, and many of the fraternity and sorority members will be in attendance at these. Being involved is the best way to meet active fraternity and sorority life members and learn about their chapters. Involvement in other student organizations is looked favorably upon during the membership selection process.
• Students need support throughout the process of recruitment/intake and new member. Be supportive and learn as much as you can about fraternity and sorority life by asking questions of your student as he or she meets members in fraternities and sororities.
• Understand the financial obligations. New members can expect to pay higher dues their first semester than in subsequent ones. Dues range anywhere between $350-$950 depending on the organization your son or daughter joins, and can change from year to year, or semester to semester, based on the chapter’s financial needs and obligations. However, most chapters are more than willing to work out payment plans with individual members. The best way to figure out this amount would be for your son or daughter to contact the chapter directly, or to gather information during the recruitment process.
• Fraternities and sororities are different on every campus. Groups that may have had one personality on the campus where you attended school may not be the same at MTSU. Let your son or daughter choose the group that he or she feels the most comfortable joining.
• Too often, parents do not allow their students to “fight their own fight.” It helps the student mature and gain some assertiveness when allowed to call various offices if they have questions or concerns about their decision to join fraternity and sorority life. Encourage them to take ownership in their process.
• Keep the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life contact information on hand if you have any questions or concerns about Fraternity and Sorority Life on MTSU’s campus.