Q: What and when is Intake?
A: Intake is the process of membership selection used by groups belonging to the National
Pan-Hellenic Council. While the process is different for each organization, all groups
do require that selected members have a required 2.5 GPA and 12 credit hours requirements
stated by the Greek Life Office.
Q: What is Recruitment?
A: Recruitment is the official process to get into a fraternity or sorority affiliated
with the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC, or locally, the CPC) or the North-American
Interfraternity Council (NIC, or locally, the IFC). During the fall there is an Informal
Recruitment process or both fraternities and sororities whereas in the spring only
sororities have a Formal Recruitment process.
Q: How long does being a New Member take and what are the requirements?
A: It depends on the organization but most organizations do not last longer than 8
weeks, typically the NPHC groups initiate after a shorter New Member period. Most
groups will require some mandatory study halls and New Member meetings. All groups
also have a one-time new Initiate fee. For more information, ask one of the members
while visiting during the Recruitment or Intake processes.
Q:What is an Interest Meeting?
A: NPHC groups sometimes hold Interest Meetings in which they discuss their national
and chapter’s history, philanthropy, and requirements to become a member. For more
information on when each group will be holding Interest meetings, contact the Office
of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
Q: What are the responsibilities for membership in a Greek organization?
A: Commitment to the principles, values and standards, for which the national organization
was founded upon. Participation in chapter activities such as meetings, educational/leadership
programs, community service events, and social activities is very important. All of
our Greek organizations have a minimum grade requirement in order to be in good standing
as a member. Those grade requirements vary by organization but all are above a 2.5.
Q: What is the financial obligation to join a Greek organization?
A: Dues vary widely from chapter to chapter and are typically higher the first semester
of joining. As you get to know Greek members on campus, be sure to ask them specific
questions related to the financial obligation for their individual organization.
Q: What is the time commitment involved with membership in a Greek organization?
A: Greek membership requires a substantial time commitment from every member. However,
the more time a member spends with the members in their organization and at chapter
activities the more benefits a student will receive from their membership. Just like
any other activity, the amount of time and energy you put into your Greek membership,
the more you will get out of the experience. Through Greek involvement, students will
learn how to balance their academics, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.
Q: Will joining a Greek organization affect my academics?
A: Academics are the first and foremost priority of WCU students. Each chapter provides
scholastic assistance designed to help each individual member achieve his or her academic
potential. Often students may find it difficult to transition from a highly structured
high school academic environment to the freedoms of college. Greek organizations assist
in the transition by offering scholarship programs, tutoring, and educational programs
about time management. In addition, the all-Greek grade point average is consistently
higher than the undergraduate all men's and women's average.
Q: What are the costs of joining a Greek chapter?
A: Each Greek organization is self-supported through dues charged to all members.
In the first year of membership a few one-time expenses are assessed for membership
and initiation. After those initial payments are made, a student's only expense is
the regular dues. Most of WCU's Greek chapters also offer housing. Greek housing is
competitive with other housing options on WCU's campus, such as residence halls or
apartments. Scholarships, financial aid, and payment plans are usually available from
individual chapters.
Q: Are Greek chapters like those shown on MTV's Fraternity/Sorority Life?
A: No. The Hollywood portrayal of Greek Life is unrealistic and negative. In reality,
fraternities/sororities are values-based organizations dedicated to the development
of character and lifelong friendship.