With so many different Fraternities and Sororities, it can be difficult to know which ones are right for you. To make it a little easier, here is an overview the common types or organizations that you might find at your University.
Social Organizations
Social Fraternities and Sororities are probably what most people associate with Greek life. This type includes all of the most well-known groups along with religious and ethnic organizations, such as Latino organizations (like Gamma Alpha Omega) and Christian organizations (like Alpha Nu Omega). While they are primarily social groups, these organizations also place a large importance on philanthropic endeavors.
Service Organizations
Service organizations distinguish themselves from social organizations by making philanthropy and community service their primary focus. Members of these organizations are free to join professional and social organizations in addition to the service organization. Unlike traditional Fraternities and Sororities, service organizations must be open to both genders.
Professional Fraternities
These organizations exist to serve students of a specific profession. Organizations exist for many different professions including law, medicine, and even aviation! While most professional Fraternities tend to be co-ed, there are some, like Alpha Gamma Rho (a men’s agricultural/social Fraternity), that remain for a specific gender.
Honor Societies
The Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS) has 66 member organizations. Honor societies focus on a specific discipline or include high-achieving students from all academic fields. Rather than following a typical rushing process, honor societies typically invite students to become members, based on their grade point averages.
Regardless of the organization(s) that you choose to be a part of during your collegiate journey, there is no doubt that all have the potential to enrich your experience. They all provide a sense of community on campus, gather as groups for a common goal, and participate in Greek traditions like creating fraternity and sorority composites. So, enjoy everything that these organizations can provide and the relationships that you make during your four years as active members!
Allie Smith