Recruitment has arrived, and you may be starting to think about how to survive the next two weeks. Should I rush? What do I need? What is Greek Life all about?  Of course, every person’s experience will be different, but we hope to provide insight on a process that can be hard to understand until you’ve been through it. 

Do Some Research

The recruitment process can seem daunting before it even begins. Doing research to understand the community can make recruitment feel a little less scary. There is some basic information about each chapter on the Fraternity and Sorority Life website. But also check out chapters’ social media accounts. Obviously, you can’t learn everything about a chapter through their instagram profile, but it may calm your nerves when walking into a room (or virtual room) of complete strangers. 

Cost may be another factor to consider while going through the recruitment process. Most chapters have some sort of payment plan available, so you probably won’t have to pay your dues all at once if finances are a concern. New member dues and active member dues are all available on the Fraternity and Sorority Life Website. Also you should keep in mind that there are additional costs beyond dues such as t-shirts, fundraisers, and event fees.

Be sure you understand the time commitment required for recruitment – and new member education. Joining a sorority typically requires 2-8 hours a week due to the education process determined by chapters.

Just Be Yourself

It might seem corny, but confidence is your most important accessory during recruitment (besides your nametag). Try on outfits beforehand and make sure you feel comfortable. Showing your personal style is way more interesting than wearing what looks good on someone else or what is trendy. Not sure what to expect from each round? Check out this pinterest page from Miami’s Panhellenic Association for inspiration and to find out what the heck cocktail attire is!

Have Key Talking Points

Even though you will be talking to many different people throughout recruitment, you will be answering a lot of similar questions. Where are you from? What’s your major? What did you do over winter term? How is recruitment going? What are some of your hobbies? Have answers prepared for these types of get-to-know-you questions. The more you tell them about yourself, the easier it will be for them to get to know you – so don’t be afraid to give long answers! The best way to have a bland conversation is to answer with yes, no, or one word answers. Don’t treat it like a Q and A session; use a question they ask to start a conversation and be sure to ask the members about themselves too!

If you’re still nervous to talk to other people about yourself, practice with your friends! And when you’re going through rounds talking to different people, make a note when you have a great conversation with someone. Not every member is going to be just like you, so it’s important to remember the chapters and individuals that you had the best connections with.Keep a list in the notes app on your phone and update it with a few bullet points after each round. 

What to Bring

While the first part of recruitment is largely remote, there are in person aspects for the second week. You will want to have some items with you as you go from chapter to chapter. Bring a small backpack or a tote bag to carry essentials.  Some potential items to bring might be mints, a few snack items, an extra mask, a change of comfy shoes, an umbrella, small makeup items for touch ups, a hair brush, deodorant, and perfume. The trick here is maintaining the balance between being prepared and overpacking. You don’t need your entire makeup collection or a whole box of granola bars. Pack light but make the most of your space!

Trust the Process

You’ve probably heard this saying from everyone who has ever gone through recruitment, but it still rings true. Trust the process and trust yourself. Joining a sorority is an amazing opportunity. Try to enjoy recruitment as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and the community as a whole. If you are yourself and trust your gut, you will find an amazing group of people. If your gut says it isn’t for you, that’s also a part of the process to trust. 

Don’t follow the Crowd

There are 16 Chapters participating in this process.  Each offers sisterhood, social activities, opportunities to serve and lead.  There is no best Chapter.  There is the best option for you.  Give each chapter a chance and keep an open mind.  

Some FAQs

Is there Fall Recruitment for Sophomores?

Not sure about the recruitment process? If you feel unsure about joining a chapter, you can withdraw from the process and go through informal recruitment in the Spring or Fall. Speak with your Rho Gamma or visit the Cliff Alexander Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life for more information.

Can chapters see your GPA? How much weight does your GPA hold?

Chapters do have access to your first semester GPA during recruitment. Each chapter has different expectations and standards when it comes to GPA. There is a general minimum standard of a 2.5 GPA, but you can see average GPAs on the chapters website. Your first priority at Miami is your education and most chapters have a GPA requirement for members that is higher than 2.5.  Still have questions? The Cliff Alexander Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life is always available to answer your questions, comments or concerns. You can find more information on their website here: https://miamioh.edu/student-life/fraternity-sorority-life/.

Grace Cooper