Frequently Asked Questions - For Parents
Will there be time for anything besides Greek life?
Joining a Greek organization does not take up all of one’s time; in fact, it is often a bridge for students to get involved in other facets of the Central Michigan University community. Through Greek activities, students contribute to campus through service organizations, intra-mural sports, political groups, etc. In addition, many Greek students hold jobs, volunteer, play a variety of varsity or club sports, and take on heavy course loads. Being a member of the Greek community, however, is a time commitment. Most students compare it to an after school activity in high school that one must budget their time for.
Will my student be hazed?
The Greek community at Central Michigan University has a strict anti-hazing policy that includes a zero tolerance rule. We do not accept hazing in any form. If and when hazing instances occur, they are immediately investigated and disciplinary action following the CMU Student Code of Conduct, National Panhellenic Conference, and Interfraternity Council guidelines is enforced.
Does my student have to live in the fraternity/sorority house?
All chapters have different obligations regarding housing. Some organizations require a minimum residency while others do not. Your student should ask questions regarding housing during the recruitment process to be aware of any potential requirements.
What does the new member process entail?
Each fraternity and sorority requires a new member process where new members learn about the heritage and foundation of the organization they are joining through a series of meeting and events. During this period your student will be introduced to a variety of aspects concerning Greek life such as ritual, scholarship programs, philanthropy projects, etc.
What will it cost for my son or daughter to go Greek?
Fraternity and sorority dues vary from one organization to the next. However, Greek life at CMU tends to be less expensive compared to larger universities. Once interested in a fraternity/sorority, your student should inquire about the specific financial obligations of that group. Important questions to ask include:
What are new member dues?
What are active member dues?
Are there national fees to be paid?
If it is required to live in the house, how much will it cost, and when will I have to live in the house?
What Can Greek Life Offer My Student?
The following facts have been researched by the North American Interfraternity Conference.
Academic Support: One of the purposes of the Greek system is to encourage and develop high scholastic achievement among its members. Fraternity and Sorority members help each other succeed.
Opportunities to Serve the Community: Greek Organizations make up the largest network of volunteers in the United States offering 10 million hours of volunteer service each year. The Greek Community at Central Michigan University participates in over many community service projects each semester. Some of the charitable organizations that Greeks at CMU support locally and nationally include:
- Children’s Miracle Netowork
- Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
- Habitat for Humanity
- Victims of Domestic Violence
- Big Brothers Big Sisters
- Special Olympics
- National Kidney Foundation
Alumni Ties: Joining a Greek Organization gives your student access to an extensive alumni network throughout the country. Chances are there is an alum in the career field your student wishes to pursue and may be able to help.
Development of Social Skills: Greek Organizations are the largest and most visible value-based organizations on college campuses. Also, in the "real" world, book smarts can only get you so far. To succeed a person must develop skills and values that will help them effectively communicate and interact with people of all different origins.
A Home: Greek Organiations are the largest not for profit student landlords! They own and manage $3 Billion in student housing and provide homes for 250,000 students in 8,000 facilities.
