The recruitment process is designed by our CPC, IFC, or NPHC councils and their respective chapters.

Becoming a New Member

In many of our chapters, after accepting an invitation to join (sometimes referred to as a "bid"), a prospective member will enter a period of time referred to as new-member orientation, training, or pledging.

This orientation period is conducted by initiated or active members, chapter or national alumni, and/or chapter advisory groups and should be in accordance with all national rules and policies and well as federal, state, and university laws and policies.

Each chapter has a different schedule of events and training for its new members. The goal is to educate new members on the traditions, values, and principles of the chapter and its national counterpart, to help them get to know all the brothers or sisters of the chapter, to meet alumni, and to learn how the chapter is governed.

This time is filled with retreats and special events. It is also a time in which new members begin to see the network that connects all Greeks. Not all chapters offer this orientation period, and it may differ in duration depending on the organization. Some chapters initiate you to a full member status upon your acceptance of an invitation to join. Other chapters may invite you to become an associate member. You should ask about a chapter's new-member policies and programs during the recruitment process.