by Quinn Peterson

Created on: December 19, 2008   Last Updated: December 29, 2008

Joining a fraternity or sorority will have a huge impact on your college life. Because every college and university varies, this article will outline the high-level fraternity and sorority recruitment process. From the first recruitment event to initiation, there are many details to pay attention to if you want to join in the best house.

1) Gather as much information as you can

As soon as you make the decision to join a fraternity or sorority, visit the student activities office to get as much information as possible. Often times, this office will have a list of active fraternities or sororities on campus, as well as brief information about each one. If you don't get enough information, you can do an online search for each house. Most national fraternities and sororities have web sites that contain a plethora of information, ranging from costs to philanthropies. By doing your homework, you will get a better idea of which house you would like to join.

2) Attend events during recruitment week

At most colleges and universities, recruitment occurs twice a year; once in the fall, and once in the spring. Fall recruitment usually involves more students. Therefore, it is the best time to get the full "pledge" experience. Ask questions about the typical activities and requirements each house may have. Typically, fraternities and sororities will have events throughout the year that require members to attend in addition to minimum G.P.A. requirements. When narrowing down your favorite house, consider how their requirements align with your expectations.

3) Impression management

The recruitment process involves evaluation: you evaluating each house and each house evaluating you. The recruitment process is designed to match each person with the best house for them. Like any other situation in which you are being evaluated (i.e. job interviews), you want to place your best foot forward. Make sure you are presentable and positive. Additionally, be open and approachable. Each fraternity and sorority is as much excited as they are nervous about recruiting new members. If there are a large number of prospective members, each house may not get everyone they want. It is important that give a great impression, so you won't get passed up by your favorite house.

4) Decide on a house/Accept the bid

Toward the end of the recruitment process, you will have a better idea of which fraternity or sorority you would like join. Each house will give you a bid if they would like you to join their organization.

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