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When you think about fraternities, what are some of the first things that come to mind? For most people, thoughts of hazing, drinking and partying. Though known for throwing some of the best parties on campus and having a great time, the Greek life is more than meets the eye. Contrary to popular belief, those who join fraternities, and take advantage of the opportunities therein, graduate a more well-rounded person.
Despite the often negative depiction of Greek life in movies, there really is something special about being apart of something bigger than yourself,” says Daniel Passov, founder of Greek U. apparel representing your fraternity with pride is something you won’t likely experience again. Below, is a small glimpse into what you’ll learn by joining a fraternity.
Expand Cultural Understanding
People from all walks of life go Greek while in college. Coming from various different lifestyles and backgrounds, it creates a “melting pot” of experience for all. You can learn about various religions, cultures, and traditions from your frat brothers, their families, and their personal backgrounds.
Network of Lifelong Friends
Here’s another thing that’s great about joining a fraternity, you never have to worry about being short on friends or resources again. Banned together as brothers, you’ll get to know a lot of different people and the skills they have to offer. By taking advantage of the opportunity to network with others, you not only improve the quality of your college experience but build relationships that can help you out in your adult life. Whether you need the help of a frat brother who graduated from law school or you need parenting advice from a group of your brothers when you get older, there is comfort in knowing you have a group of individuals who will always have your back.
Opportunities for Leadership
Many fraternities have leadership positions available. Whether you decide to help manage the organization finances or you’re responsible for planning annual events, the roles require a high level of professionalism and teach you leadership skills that include effective communication, organization, and time management. Even after you’ve graduated with your Greek Fraternity Stoles, these skills and your position within the organization can stand out on a resume regarding you as a leader before you’ve ever had experience in the workplace.
Helping the Community
The parties might be what entices you to sign up and go Greek, however, there’s more to a fraternity than fun and games. A common requirement of all fraternity members is that they complete several hours of community service. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel from participating in events that help your community, your fraternity’s charity, and the less fortunate is unlike anything else. Not to mention, community service hours look great on a resume and go to show volume in who you are as an individual.
Teamwork
Greek life is all about family. Members are often referred to as brothers (fraternity) and sisters (sorority). Though it is true that siblings don’t always get along, being part of something bigger than yourself teaches you the importance of teamwork and togetherness. As you get to know each other and how your differences can help you reach goals faster, it becomes easier to connect and build together. As working with others will be required throughout life, and especially, in the world of business, if you’re able to master the art of teamwork with more than 100 diverse frat brothers, you’re well-equipped to work in a team setting for a fortune 500 company.
Money Management
Whether you’ve opted to take on the position of fraternity treasurer or you’re simply a member, financial management will be necessary to ensure that you uphold your obligations and partake in the festivities of Greek life. Making sure you have enough money to cover the cost of college as well as pay your fraternity dues, buying apparel, and saving up for retreats, parties, and other events are necessary as a member. These basic responsibilities often help frat members to understand the importance of effective financial management which will be crucial in your personal and professional life.
Time Management
Money isn’t the only thing you’ll be managing as a fraternity brother. You’ll also be required to be mindful of your time. Needing to make sure that you’re able to make all of your classes on time, you’ll also have to pencil in time for weekly chapter meetings, weekend activities, studying, and other college education and social tasks.
The Importance of Positive Behavior
You may have seen your fair share of movies where fraternity members are acting out irrationally. Though entertaining to watch, the truth is that fraternity brothers are held to a higher standard once they’ve pledged. They are taught that negative behavior reflects poorly not only on them but on the Greek organization as a whole. This, in turn, encourages them to behave positively on campus and off. Most go on to be outstanding members of the community ensuring to be responsible for their own actions and how they could reflect negatively on their personal or professional brand.
Whether you’re thinking of joining a fraternity yourself or considering the possibility for your college teen, you should know there’s more to it than partying and booze. A fraternity is a family that teaches young men the importance of diversity, hard work, and positivity. It is through these Greek organizations that most are taught life-long skills like money and time management. More importantly, it is a network of individuals that will be there for you for the rest of your life.
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This is a featured post by site supporter Anne Davis
Photo: Getty Images
Hi Anne, Thank you for your article on the positive aspects of fraternities. It’s refreshing to see content focusing on how 95% of members of Greek organizations behave in congruence with their organization’s values. I work with undergraduate Greek members everyday and witness how their organization helps develop their life skills more than any other club on campus. However, there are lots of cultural disctractions on college campuses and often the expectations of fraternities are not communicated effectively. That’s when we see harmful and dangerous behavior become the status quo and, far too often, witness the negative consequences. Please let… Read more »
Chris, if YOU are interested in writing an article in response, please submit it to us at our portal: http://GoodMenProject.submittable.com/submit. Thanks!