For Parents

The decision to join a fraternity or sorority is a big one. We hope that parents will recognize the benefits and rewards of joining a Greek-letter organization and encourage their students to join!

Most chapters host events that include alumni and parents at different times throughout the year. Chapter members are encouraged to communicate with their families about events and programs so they may support these efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Greek-letter organization?
Greek-letter organizations, more commonly known as fraternities and sororities, are groups of individuals of similar interest bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through ritual in which members participate. Rituals are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth, and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities.

These groups are referred to as a Greek-Letter organization because the name consists of Greek letters that serve as a reminder of the values of the group. Fraternity is a name applied to all Greek organizations, but mainly men's groups, while sorority is the name applied to only women's organizations.

How do you join a fraternity or sorority?
Fraternities and sororities organize a formal process of meeting people and making friends. This process is called recruitment. Recruitment introduces prospective members to the Greek community and gives unaffiliated students the chance to learn what makes fraternities and sororities unique organizations. Students who wish to participate in the recruitment process are not required to join any organization. Recruitment is a time to see what fraternities and sororities can offer you and to meet members of the chapter as well as alumni/ae.

The recruitment process usually happens at the beginning of both the fall and spring semesters.

What are the benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority?

• Gain a support group that will help transitioning to college life significantly easier
• Cultivate friendships that will last a lifetime
• Access resources to help encourage and achieve academic goals
• Develop leadership skills with hands-on opportunities to practice and lead
• Maximize involvement on campus and in the community
• Serve the community through active participation in community service projects
• Network with alumni to develop priceless career opportunities
• Maximize the college experience while having a lot of fun!

What is it like to be a New Member?
New members experience a period of orientation and education once they express interest in joining a fraternity or sorority. During this time your son/daughter will participate in weekly meetings to learn about the University and their chapter. Other events include leadership retreats, community service projects, and activities designed to build friendships among the members of the newer and older members of chapter.

Both the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Northeastern University have a zero tolerance policy for hazing and take any allegations seriously. Please visit: http://www.northeastern.edu/curry/forms/hazing.doc to view the Massachusetts Hazing Statute. If you feel that you or someone you know is participating in inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you are encouraged to contact the Student Leadership and Engagment Office.

How much time does it take to be Greek?
Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. A Greek-letter organization is like any co-curricular activity; it does requires a time investment. Students in the fraternal community have the opportunity for a well-rounded college experience that includes learning how to balance academics, work, campus involvement, and social commitments.

Are there costs associated with joining?
Each chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. After those initial payments are made, your son/daughter's expenses will be their regular dues. Each chapter has a different due structure and thus finances will vary between chapters.

Will my son/daughter live in a "house"?
Northeastern University does not support housing for fraternities or sororities. There is one fraternity, Beta Gamma Epsilon, that still resides in a fraternity house licensed by the City of Boston. Many chapter members live together, either on or off campus, but these accomodations are not sanctioned by the University.

Copyright © 2007: Northeastern University Greek Executive Council