What is fraternity and sorority life?
Fraternity and sorority life refers to the social organizations found on college and university campuses known as fraternities (for men and male identified) and sororities (for women and female identified). These organizations often have Greek letters as their names and focus on community service, leadership development, social activities, and academic achievement.
What is the benefit of joining a fraternity or sorority?
There are many benefits to joining a fraternity or sorority at the University of Denver. Our goal is to provide members with a diverse, well-rounded, 4 Dimensional enhances your time at DU. Our community is built on 100 years of history providing countless opportunities such as:
Who is actually responsible for fraternities and sororities at DU?
Each organization has student leaders who are elected by the chapter to run the day-to-day operations of the chapter. These members are advised by advisors who are graduates from their respective colleges or universities. Chapters are also provided with advisement by the University of Denver through the Associate Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life, Christopher Miofsky and the Program Coordinator for Student Engagement, Allie Tookmanian.
While the University of Denver hosts our organizations and maintains some level of authority, the University does not have 100% direct control over each chapter. We work to have open, collaborative relationships with chapter and advisors for the betterment of all members. The University does not make and cannot influence membership decisions. Questions about membership decisions should be directed to chapter leaders and/or chapter advisors.
How with membership affect my academics?
Each organization maintains their own requirements to join and maintain membership. Generally speaking, members of fraternities and sororities have higher academic achievement then non-members. You can find more information about chapter academic achievement by checking out grade reports!
A general guideline to joining is to have a 2.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale. If you do not have a 2.5, you are not automatically disqualified from participating in Recruitment or Intake activities. Each organization should provide you with their academic requirements prior to joining.
What are the financial costs to join?
Each organization has a different costs for joining and maintaining membership. Organizations should be able to provide you with a full list of costs prior to joining to allow you to make the best financial choice for you.
Are fraternities and sororities safe?
Safety is a top priority for reputable organizations and their affiliated institutions. Many have strict policies and procedures in place to address critical issues facing today's college student. Parents should encourage their children to choose organizations that align with their values and emphasize a safe, respectful environment.
The University of Denver has zero tolerance for hazing. Hazing does not belong anywhere on our campus, especially in leadership organizations like fraternities and sororities. If you feel you or someone has experienced hazing, you are encouraged to report that to Student Rights and Responsibilities through their Incident Report Form or directly to Fraternity & Sorority Life staff at christopher.miofsky@du.edu.
How do I find the right organization?
It is very important that each student makes the decision that you feel is right for you. Like other "big decisions", we encourage you to talk through your feelings and think about where you will feel the most belonging. Joining an FSL organization is not a science and there is no wrong way to make this decision.
How do fraternities and sororities promote diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Many organizations are making strides to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through education, policy changes, and diverse recruitment practices. DU provides numerous opportunities including for members including Multicultural Greek Council chapter that focus on representing and supporting students from various backgrounds.
What are the requirements to join and how do I find the right organization?
Much like the cost, each organization has different requirements to join and should be able to provide that information prior to joining. You are encouraged to research all of our chapters prior to joining. It is very important that you make the decision that you feel is right for you. Like other "big decisions", we encourage you to talk through your feelings and think about where you will feel the most belonging. Joining an FSL organization is not a science and there is no wrong way to make this decision. Considerations you should take into account:
As a family member, how can I support my student?
Much like the cost, each organization has different requirements to join and should be able to provide that information prior to joining. You are encouraged to research all of our chapters prior to joining. Considerations you should take into account:
Do I have to live in the house?
Not always! Some organizations will require it for certain officers or certain members, but they will tell you ahead of time. FSL Housing space is limited so not everyone can/will live in.
Is it like I see in the movies or on TV?
While there are some similarities, much of what you see in the media is exaggerated for a viewing audience. We strive to ensure that this is an academic, social, and well-being experience for all our members.
How much time will it take?
This will depend on you. If you take on leadership role, then it will take up a bit more time than a non-leadership member. However, being involved should not take up most of your time. Organizations are flexible as long as you are honest with the organization about obligations.
How do fraternities and sororities contribute to community service?
FSL organizations are often heavily involved in philanthropic activities and community service. They host events to raise money for various charities, volunteer in their local communities, and organize service projects. Many organizations have national or international philanthropic partners and commit to ongoing service efforts. For more information on our chapters at DU and how they support our community, please check out our community grade reports!
Can I join if I am an athlete, a transfer student, or an upperclass student?
Yes, all organizations welcome transfer students and upperclass students. While the majority of new new members tend to be freshmen or sophomores, all DU students are welcome to join our community. Some chapters have different requirements, so it is important to check with those chapters ahead of time.
Athletes are HIGHLY encouraged to seek our membership in organizations. Many professional athletes are also affiliated with an FSL Organization. It is very doable to participate in both activities.
What is the difference between a social or cultural fraternity/sorority and a professional or service fraternity/sorority?
Social fraternities and sororities primarily focus on social interaction, leadership development, and community service. Professional and service fraternities and sororities, on the other hand, center around a specific academic or professional field (like business or engineering) or community service. These organizations provide networking opportunities and resources related to their specific focus area, in addition to social activities. Students can join a social/cultural AND a professional/service organization at the same time, but not two of the same.
Check out our campus partners!
For more information, please check out our campus partners!