How many fraternities and sororities are on the U of O campus?

There are 8 Panhellenic sororities, 2 NPHC sororities, 12 fraternities, and 1 fraternity colony.

What is the University's and Greek Life's stance on hazing?

There is zero tolerance for hazing.

What does it cost to live in a chapter house?

The cost varies from chapter to chapter; however, it is one of the most inexpensive ways to live on campus. Look at our forms page for a breakdown of fees for each chapter.

If I join a chapter, do I have to live in the chapter house as a freshmen?

No, most freshmen who join chapters remain living in the residence halls for their freshmen year and then move into the chapter house starting their sophomore year. Live-in requirements vary from chapter to chapter, but all houses allow freshmen to remain in the residence halls. Some students want to move directly into the chapter house, so chapters often leave a few spaces available for freshmen who want to move in immediately. If you are interested in joining a fraternity or sorority and then moving into a chapter house right away, you must not sign a residence hall contract and must instead be a part of the contract-release program, which provides temporary housing for a week at the beginning of the year prior to moving into a chapter. For more information about the contract-release program, contact the University Department of Housing.

What kind of community service projects do fraternities and sororities offer?

Our community creates and participates in a variety of community service events, such as University Day, throwing a senior prom at a retirement community, and working in organic gardens. We support local organizations such as food for Lane County, Boys and Girls Club and Kids Sports.

What philanthropic organizations does Greek Life support?

Each chapter has their own philanthropy and they benefit organizations such as The Children's Miracle Network, Looking Glass Shelter and the Make A Wish Foundation.

How do I get involved in men's or women's recruitment?

Sign up online for fraternity or sorority recruitment! You can also stop by Greek Life in Suite 5 in the EMU to ask questions and learn more about recruitment options.

Sorority Fall Formal Recruitment Questions:

What should I expect my recruitment days to be like?

Recruitment can definitely be tiring both physically and emotionally. However, it is really up to you to decide how positive a recruitment experience you will have. A good attitude and an open mind are vital. Remember that even though small talk may become tedious and repetitive, every chapter visit is a new experience. Approach even the last chapter of the day with an open mind and good attitude, it could be the right one for you!

What is a Rho Gamma?

Rho Gamma stands for recruitment guide. Rho Gammas have been chosen for this position because of their positive attitude, objectivity, leadership skills and enthusiasm for recruitment. You will meet your Rho Gamma during orientation and call on her for any questions you have throughout the process. Rho Gammas attend a 10 week extensive course, which enables them to aid you in the recruitment process. Rho Gammas are members of sororities on campus, but in an effort to give you an unbiased advice and to serves as an impartial listener, she has disaffiliated from her chapter and will not reveal her affiliation until Bid Day. Rho Gammas are there to help you make the most of your recruitment experience, these women have been in your position and are a person you can confide in and all of your conversations will be confidential. Your Rho Gamma is your most knowledgeable resource about the recruitment process, Panhellenic, and the sorority community.

How do sororities decide who to invite back each party?

As the number of parties is reduced round to round, so is the number of women each sorority is allowed to invite back. Everyone who participates in recruitment has something different to offer a sorority, but sororities must release some potential new members, just as you will have to make decisions about some sororities. In deciding which potential new member to invite back and which to dismiss, each chapter has its own process. All chapters have their own scholarship standards to be met. Great lengths are taken by chapters to ensure a fair process and equal consideration for each potential new member. Additional concerns should be addressed with your Rho Gamma.

What should I talk about at the recruitment parties?

It is important for you to be yourself during recruitment and let the conversation flow naturally. The sororities are presenting themselves to you just as you are presenting yourself to them. The conversation should go both ways. Asking questions is encouraged. As you go from one day to the next, conversations will become more in-depth and involved. Remember that you have to narrow your choice of sororities each round. Therefore, collect enough information to comfortable make these decisions.

What if I am shy?

There are a lot of shy people out there but this should not hinder your recruitment experience. Remember, there are members of the chapters who are shy too, and you are not alone. Every sorority wants members with a variety of personalities. Each member of a sorority contributes their individual talents to the chapter. Just keep in mind that it is up to you to present yourself to each sorority. Smile and feel free to talk; the members want to get to know you as best they can. There is no reason to feel insecure. Sororities want to impress you just as much as you want to impress them.

What if I have trouble choosing between certain chapters?

Difficult decisions are a common dilemma. Potential new members, however, shouldn’t look at this as a problem. Most women would probably be happy at several sororities on campus. Besides, keep in mind that sororities are having to make decisions too. Think carefully and look objectively at what each sorority has to offer. A sorority should be a second home, a place where you feel totally comfortable and welcome. Your intuition, experiences at each party, personal goals and desires should guide you to the group that is right for you.

I have heard that sororities have various reputations. How do I handle this information?

Do I need to have letters of recommendation?

If you have friends or family willing to write you letters of recommendation we suggest you do so. Although, not having letters of recommendation will not hinder you in the process.

If I am a legacy to a sorority, is there anything special I should know?

Each potential new member is considered on an individual basis; legacies are no more obligated to join a particular sorority than the sorority is obligated to pledge her. The potential new member and the sorority are looking for happiness and compatibility, not a family connection to the group.

What if during recruitment week I discover that I am not ready to commit to sorority life?

A potential new member is never obligated to join a sorority. For various reasons, if you would not like to continue with formal recruitment, you may choose to withdrawal. If you withdraw prior to signing a preference card on Preference Night, you are eligible to participate in continuous open bidding better known as Informal Recruitment. Informal Recruitment continues throughout the academic year. If during recruitment week, you decide that you no longer want to participate in formal recruitment, you should discuss these feelings with your Rho Gammas who will help you through the process.

What if I turn down the bid I receive on Bid Day?

If you receive a bid from a chapter on Bid Day and decide not to accept it, you will not be able to participate in continuous open bidding for the remainder of the school year. You will be eligible to participate in formal or informal recruitment the following academic year.

What is Panhellenic Sorority Recruitment?

Panhellenic sorority recruitment is a mutual selection process that is filled with activities designed to offer prospective members the chance to learn about the Panhellenic sororities in a concentrated period of time. It is an opportunity for students to meet the sorority members, ask questions, define financial obligations, time commitments and membership requirements. Whether or not you decide to join a Panhellenic sorority, recruitment is a great way to meet people and get acquainted with life at the University of Oregon.