by Quinn Peterson

Created on: December 07, 2008

While walking through the quad during my first day at college, I was overwhelmed by the crowds of coeds surrounding brightly colored signs and banners. "Alpha Phi", "Sigma Chi", "Sigma Phi Epsilon", and "Gamma Phi Beta", they read. These signs and banners were acting as beacons to those walking by. It was recruitment week, and this coveted event occurred twice a year at the California University I attended.

My experiences at college melted away all of my Greek stereotypes, including the images of countless parties, which I equated as being the essence of Greek life. As a member of one of the college's sororities, I learned that sororities and fraternities are extremely beneficial to the campus; negating any perceived harm they may cause.

Through their philanthropic benefits, Greek organizations bring a sense of campus life to any college. Many fraternities and sororities hold fundraisers multiple times a year. An example of one of these fundraisers is Greek week, an event that occurs every year at the University I attended.

Through talent shows and sports events, the Greek community raised over $10,000 for the local children's hospital. When large groups or organizations work together toward one common goal, pride and camaraderie are developed. As a result of the fundraisers on my college campus, many Greek and non-Greek organizations developed college spirit and pride. Additionally, many fundraisers provided support for the college and engaged the local community.

In addition to building a sense of campus life and community support, many fraternities and sororities have on average higher GPAs than the rest of the college population. Through academic assistance, sororities and fraternities facilitate high academic standards. Many enforce a minimum GPA rule where members must maintain a standard GPA. If member fail to meet the standard, they are placed on probation or removed from the organization. By encouraging high academic standards, fraternities and sororities reinforce the essence of higher education.

Opponents of Greek life will argue that members are preoccupied with parties and alcohol, rather than the academic excellence. I can only conclude that these opponents have never been members of a Greek organization themselves. While sororities and fraternities do offer social events, they are not the cornerstone of the organization.

Fraternities and sororities provide its members a means for developing a sense of campus life, engaging in social networks, and holding philanthropic events. These organizations not only help their members; they offer countless benefits to the campus in which they reside.

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