Rush

Rush can be among the most rewarding or confusing of times for college men. The Greek System at Lafayette differs from most other colleges and universities when it comes to Rush. With the adoption of "differed pledging" in 1995 the College forbid any Greek organization from initiating freshmen. This has had the effect of creating an unofficial one year Rush period, while at institutions where freshman can pledge this time is condensed in to just two to three weeks with heavy organization by the administration and IFC. What this presents is a unique and in so ways a superior Rush experience at Lafayette. As a freshman you have a year to visit the houses, meet the brothers, and make your decision as to where to pledge or to do so at all.

Take your time to read the following suggestions

• Determine why you want to join.
  Depending upon your interests and needs, there may be only a few groups in which you would be most interested. Every group will offer social, service, athletic and alumni events at different levels. Sit down and list your priorities, so you can better match your needs to the offerings a group may have. And keep in mind that such a priority as athletics or leadership may not lead you to the intramural champion or most visible group on campus, respectively. You may find that a smaller chapter will allow you to contribute your athletic or leadership talents more than a much larger group might.
• Meet as many brothers as possible.
  Some chapters give a great first impression, but they may have some problem members hidden in a back room. You're going to have to be brothers with them all, so make an effort to meet everyone. If you don't like a bunch of the members, you're not going to be happy joining their chapter. This also helps the brothers in the house, as many could believe their lack of knowledge of you is due to your lack of effort and interest in the house. Talk to as many brothers as possible, say hello when you see them around campus, every little bit goes a long way.
• Ask lots of questions.
  Don't expect them to know what you're looking for – ask questions! You're shopping for a group where you'll feel comfortable and be helped to reach your potential. Find out how they're going to help. Find out the costs? Do you have to live in the house? How long is the pledge program and how much time does it require each week? How will they help develop your leadership skills? What is their chapter GPA? Do they have scholarships? Can their alumni help you find a job? etc., etc. Get answers before you pledge and you'll be much happier with your decision.
• Find out about the national organization.
  A good national fraternity will make the difference between a four year experience and a lifetime of involvement. What services does the national organization provide? Can they help you go to grad school? Do they have scholarships available? Are there alumni groups in cities where you might want to live? How can they help you? Are there dues to pay as alumni? etc.
• Last, but certainly not least, Make up your own mind!
  Don't let others tell you what you want. Too many men have pledged a fraternity because of what others would think of their decision. Join because you want to, not because it's fashionable or might impress a friend. Remember, this decision is one that will affect the rest of your life.

  Rush can be a lot of fun. You'll meet some great guys and, if you ask, may have all your questions about fraternities answered. At best, you'll find the perfect group for you and start a lifelong association with your fraternity. At worst, you won't join, but you'll have much better information about fraternities and what they can offer. Either way, you come out ahead!