Fraternities and sororities are cultural phenomena that date back to 1776. Greek life has cemented itself as a core aspect of college culture and now, almost two-and-a-half centuries later, Greek letters can be seen almost anywhere in universities across the U.S. UB is no exception, as it is home to a wide array of fraternities and sororities. But what are the benefits of joining Greek life? What are the drawbacks?
One of the most important aspects of Greek life is the chance to build new connections with people that are in the same community as you.
“I’ve met so many amazing girls and I’ve gotten to have so many opportunities for leadership and fundraising. I feel like it really opened up my eyes to a … whole new college experience and [I found] a home away from home,” Ellerie Mae, a junior communications major and member of the Delta Phi Epsilon sorority said.
Greek life could introduce a completely new social setting and also help to build connections with different organizations. Many fraternities and sororities partner up with local charities in order to either raise money for a specific cause or to help the community. This is normally done through projects, fundraisers as well as food and clothing drives.
In 2024, members of the Alpha Gamma Delta and Delta Phi Epsilon sororities participated in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk in order to raise awareness for mental health, and advocate for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Although fraternities and sororities can do a lot of good, it has been reported that being a member of one is a massive time commitment, which might not be possible for everybody, especially for those who are either taking on a large course schedule or wish to pursue other opportunities.
“I felt like I didn’t have enough time,” Melody Hayes, a junior finance major and former member of the Sigma Delta Tau sorority said. “I wanted to balance … more of my business-related endeavors.”
“It becomes harder, though, as you progress [through] your major,” Lydia Evans, a senior biomedical sciences major and member of the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority said. “But I’d say I’m pretty involved.”
Even though upperclassmen who are part of Greek life may not be able to be as involved as they once were, the connections that they made remain.
“I found some of my absolute best friends in the world,” Evans said.
Even students who dropped out from their organizations are able to look back and reflect fondly on certain aspects of their Greek life experience.
“I always see familiar faces on campus,” Hayes said. “To this day, I met … my best friend through Greek life.”
Fraternities and sororities might not be for everyone, but they certainly do come with their perks. Although they require time and commitment, they allow you to expand your social circle, form connections with other UB students and create long-lasting bonds. To rush, or not to rush: that is the question.
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