EMMA FIGLEWICZ
PHOTO EDITOR
9/25/2023
As September ends, Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL) recruitment returns to campus. Both fraternities and sororities have been preparing for the past couple of months to welcome a new round of potential members to Alma College.
Currently, Alma College is home to five social sororities: Gamma Phi Beta, Alpha Xi Delta, Phi Sigma Sigma, Alpha Gamma Delta and Kappa Iota. Alma also has five social fraternities: Delta Gamma Tau, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Zeta Sigma, Phi Mu Alpha and Sigma Chi.
All of these organizations will be hosting various rounds and events of recruitment for potential new members (PNMs) to understand the organizations better.
Though recruitment is open to anyone on campus, many students choose to avoid going through the process of attending recruitment due to stigmas that are associated with FSL.
“Alma College’s Fraternity and Sorority Life community is not anything like the stereotypical things that can be referenced on TikTok from bigger institutions here at Alma. We are inclusive for everyone and there is truly a place for each student on campus in our community. The sororities here are so unique. I truly think we are so lucky to have them that way,” said Ava Kelly (’25), Panhellenic Council Senior Recruitment Chair.
“I know it is super intimidating because new students don’t hear anything but horror stories about FSL, but at Alma, we have a zero-tolerance policy, meaning that every organization must be free of hazing and other inappropriate activities,” said Kelly.
“Some individuals may choose not to go through recruitment due to concerns about time commitment, the financial obligations associated with dues or potential stigma surrounding Greek life. It’s important to address these concerns transparently and highlight the diverse and inclusive nature of our organizations, as well as the scholarship and leadership opportunities they offer,” said Dylan Kast (’24), IFC President.
The FSL community offers students an outlet of inclusion and support; for those looking to get more involved on campus, members of FSL encourage going through the recruitment process even if they are unsure about joining a fraternity or sorority.
“It’s such a great way to get yourself out there and get yourself involved. It’s also a great way to challenge yourself by going outside your social comfort zone. Meeting so many new people at once can be a bit overwhelming, but everyone is there to help out potential new members in any capacity. It’s not meant to cause people extra stress,” said Connor Slaggert (’25), IFC Rush Chair.
The FSL community is built on a strong foundation of philanthropy work. Each chapter has unique philanthropy that raises money through various events throughout the year.
“I love being in being engaged in Sigma Chi’s philanthropy, the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. Doing events such as our charity basketball game with TKE is an amazing way to give back to the community. Being able to participate in our and other FSL philanthropy events is one of the main reasons I joined FSL,” said Ryan Gray (’25).
“Don’t let potential concerns hold you back; Greek life offers incredible personal and professional development opportunities, and it’s a chance to build lasting connections that can enrich your college experience,” said Kast.
