|
|
 Printable Version |
|
 |
Parent's Information Dear Parents & Guardians, Welcome to West Virginia University and the WVU fraternity system. As a parent, you probably have a variety of questions about the Greek experience. We hope to provide you with useful information about the Greek organizations at the WVU.
A quality fraternity life experience can provide your son with some of the most rewarding and memorable experiences in college. Many of the friends he will make as a result of this experience will be with him throughout his entire life—others will simply help shape the man your son is and will become. Greek men at West Virginia University are leaders of campus. Socially, academically, and professionally, our fraternity men have demonstrated leadership in the classroom and in their chosen field of work. Your son can join a community of individuals who will shape the campus culture. As you no doubt have already realized, you may have questions. Being a new member of a fraternity (sometimes referred to as “associate” or “pledge”) is a scary term for some parents! The information surrounding the social atmosphere, costs, activities, and his eventual initiation into the fraternity post some very common questions for parents/guardians. It's not uncommon for parents to want specific questions answered, and we encourage and welcome you to contact the Student Organizations office or any of our committee members at any time. We've also listed many questions and answers below that may help you understand what the fraternity system at WVU is all about. At any time during your son's journey through fraternity life, (not just his freshman year) he has questions or concerns, encourage him to speak with the Greek Affairs Office, his alumni advisors or representatives from his Fraternity's National Office. There are various resources on campus to help your son perform at the very best level. Sincerely, The WVU Fraternity Recruitment Committee Frequently Asked Questions by Parents What is a Greek Organization? A Greek organization is a group of individuals of similar interest bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through ritual in which members participate. Rituals are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth, and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities. It is referred to as a Greek organization because the name consists of Greek letters that serve as a reminder of the values of the group. Fraternity is a name applied to all Greek organizations, but is usually specific to men's groups. [Back To Top] How do you Join a Fraternity? This is a very nervous and exciting time as you prepare to send your son off to college. The Greek community shares that nervous excitement with you because recruitment is the time fraternities welcome new members into their family and the Greek community. Fraternities organize a process of meeting people and making friends. This process is called recruitment. Recruitment introduces prospective members to the Greek community and gives unaffiliated students the chance to learn what makes fraternities unique organizations. Participating in recruitment provides students with the opportunity to meet members of the chapter as well as some alumni. Students who wish to participate in the recruitment process are not required to join any organization. [Back To Top] What housing obligations will my son incur in subsequent years if he joins? Depends on the group that he joins. Some fraternity chapters have a live-in house requirement that comes along with membership and some do not. In addition, the costs of residency for each chapter house is different. Questions about residency obligations should be asked each chapter during the recruitment process. [Back To Top] What is involved in being a New Member? New members all experience a period of orientation. During this time your son will participate in weekly meetings to learn about university activities and the fraternity they have joined. Other events included leadership retreats, community service projects, and activities designed to build friendships among the new and the older members of the chapter. [Back To Top] How much time does a Fraternity take? Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires an investment of one's time. Participating in a Greek organization is like any co-curricular activity; it requires a time investment. The benefit of membership in the Greek community at WVU is the opportunity for a well-rounded college experience that includes learning how to balance academics, work, campus involvement and social commitments. [Back To Top] What impact would Greek Membership have on my son's grades? Students often find managing their time difficult when moving from the highly structured high school environment to the freedom of college. Greek membership assists in that transition by offering scholarship programs that may include study partners, mandatory study hours, and time management workshops. Your son can also access the network of chapter members who already know how to use campus resources like the library, computer labs and academic advisors. Nothing, however, can take the place of a disciplined and academically focused person to ensure success in college. [Back To Top] Who's in Charge? Fraternity members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors. In addition, fraternities are part of national or international organizations that offer support, advice and direction through paid professional staff and regional volunteers. As you can see a variety of individuals oversee the operations of Greek life. In addition, professional staff from the university are also employed to advise the Greek organizations. In addition, some houses are now staffed with paid House Directors to supervise and manage the fraternity house. [Back To Top] What's the Cost? Each chapter is self-supported through dues charged to all members. In the first year of membership, a few one-time expenses are assessed. After these initial payments are made, your son's only expenses will be their regular dues. Greek living usually includes lodging and meals and is comparable to other housing options. [Back To Top] |
|---|
| WVU Fraternity Recruitment | P.O. Box 5059 | Morgantown, WV 26507 Webmaster | Site designed by WVU Fraternity Recruitment Committee |
Last modified: July 3, 2008 |
|---|