by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: July 25, 2009   Last Updated: July 29, 2009

College fraternities and sororities have garnered quite a reputation all over the country. It is well known that for anyone who wants to lead an active social life, that joining a sorority or fraternity is the ticket to doing so. There is, however, a big difference between being a member of a sorority or fraternity and being a member and living in the chapter's house. There are many things to consider when trying to decide whether or not to live in a sorority or fraternity house.

Here is a look at some of those considerations.

*COST -

The first consideration should be cost. One needs to weigh the cost of living in a fraternity or sorority with that of living in a dorm or living off campus. First, you need to know what you will have to pay in the way of rent. Do you also have to pitch in for utilities? Is there an additional cost for food? Would there be any miscellaneous expenses for which you would be responsible?

*LOCATION -

How close to campus is the house? Do you need to take public or campus transportation? If you have a car, is parking available? How far would you have to walk to campus? What would the commute be like in inclement weather?

*ROOMMATE(S)

Who would your roommate or roommates be? Are they people with whom you get along? Are there any reasons to suspect that there might be tensions or problems that would prevent you and your roommate(s) from getting along? How likely are you to have privacy?

*HOUSE MATES -

What about your other house mates? Are they people who are reasonably quiet, or will you have to contend with loud stereos, a lot of drinking, parties, or other types of noise? If you live there, will you be able to study there, or will you have to go to the library or someplace else to study?

*FRIENDS -

Is this something all of your friends are doing? If so, and you are already feeling anxious about being away from home, will this help alleviate those fears? Will your college experience be better as a result of this opportunity to live with your friends? If you are a naturally shy person, might this help you learn to open up to people more?

*IMPACT ON YOUR GRADES -

Think about the potential impact this might have on your grades. If you are on a scholarship, you aren't going to want to decide to do this if it could have a detrimental impact on your grades. Even if you aren't on a scholarship, you will not want to do something that might have such a detrimental effect on your grades that it could some how harm your chances to get into a

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