What will I get out of Greek life that I wouldn't get out of any other
university organization?
Coming to university is one of the major life changes that you will go
through. Joining a sorority can help make the transition easier.
Developing life-long friendships with the members in your sorority
helps make Western's large campus seem smaller. For many members,
these sororities become a home away from home. In addition to the
sisterhood, every sorority promotes the values of enhancing
leadership, scholarship, and philanthropy in their members.
How will joining a sorority now benefit me after university?
The life long friendships you will make through your sorority can last
into post-college years and membership can be a life-long experience.
Joining now is really an investment in your future. Wherever a member
ends up after college, chances are she will be able to find an alumni
chapter or other members of their sorority in the area. In addition,
Greeks have national networks for its members that could be helpful in
finding jobs or internships.
Will my academics be compromised if I join sorority?
Academics are a priority in the Greek community. When students join,
they become part of a larger group of students who value their
academic goals at Western. This group understands what the new member
is facing and can provide support in many areas and each sorority has
programs within the chapter to encourage high academic achievement.
Many sororities offer scholarship opportunities on top of those
offered by the National Panhellenic Conference.
What is Philanthropy?
Greek members take it as part of their mission to support their
national philanthropies (non-for-profit causes) financially and
physically. Throughout the year, each sorority spends time fundraising
and volunteering to help their particular philanthropy, benefiting the
UWO campus and the London community. The time spent together on these
events is one of the many times that sorority sisters can bond while
making a difference in someone's life.
How much time does a sorority take up?
The time commitment varies from sorority to sorority but the first
semester is most time intensive as the new member goes through the
chapter's recruitment and education program. The time spent in this
program will give your student the opportunity to develop their
leadership and time management skills, learn about the history of the
organization, develop friendships, and allow them to become involved
with other organizations. After the initiation into the chapter,
expectations will vary. Each chapter has weekly chapter meetings and
other mandatory events (philanthropies, service, and initiation)
throughout the year, but they are planned well in advance. In
addition to the weekly meeting, the more your student puts in to the
chapter the more they will get out of being a member!
What does it cost to be a member?
The Greek experience is an investment in your student's future. The
leadership skills, the academic assistance, and friendships will
benefit your student beyond their university days. The perception
that sororities are only an option for wealthy students is widespread
and false. Greek organizations are quite affordable and fees go to
services that will positively impact your student. To assist members,
chapters may offer scholarships and grants. We encourage all
interested students to ask for financial information prior to joining.
Are sororities primarily social in nature?
There is a social aspect to the Greek community and these "social"
events include educational programs/workshops, community service
events, and Parent's Days in addition to parties and socials. Today's
Greek communities across Canada have adopted a strict approach to
socializing thereby creating a safer, more beneficial environment for
members. Each organization may have national rules to follow regarding
the hosting of social events, as well as sponsor education on alcohol
misuse and abuse.
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