Information for Prospective Members
Are you interested in joining a fraternity or sorority? If so, we think that's great news! There are a lot of reasons to "Go Greek" and a lot of benefits one can gain from membership in a fraternity or sorority. Ship students interested in joining a fraternity or sorority are encouraged to review this website, including the requirements for joining a fraternity or sorority. If you have any questions regarding joining and organization please feel free to contact us!
Potential New Member FAQs
Why should I join a fraternity or sorority?
Joining a fraternity or sorority at Ship will be one of the best decisions you ever make. Sororities and fraternities have a rich history at Shippensburg University dating back to the 1950s. These organizations are rooted in founding principles that foster academic achievement, student involvement, community service, and life-long friendships. Fraternities and sororities come together to form a personal network of individuals with similar ideas, interests, and a mutual pursuit of a well-rounded college education. Advantages include:
- Build a sense of community and belonging on-campus
- Scholastic resources to help student achieve their academic goals
- Leadership skills acquired through hands-on experience
- Encouragement to get involved and maximize their potential on campus
- Opportunities for active participation in community service projects
How will joining a fraternity or sorority affect my studies?
Fraternities and sororities also serve as a great resource for students academically through chapter-based academic success plans, study groups, and tutoring/mentoring programs. Many chapters also require a certain grade point average for initial membership into the organization and to maintain good standing within the organization.
What does the financial commitment of joining a fraternity/sorority look like?
Like most opportunities for involvement in college, there is a financial commitment associated with a joining a fraternity or sorority. There are initiation fees that are collected upon joining an organization, and annual dues to the national headquarters. These fees go towards covering a variety of expenses ranging from leadership development opportunities to liability insurance coverage. Perspective members are encouraged to ask about financial commitments in the joining process.
Aren’t fraternities & sororities just like the ones in the movies and on tv?
Unfortunately, individuals without complete information often define the image of fraternities & sororities. Movies and television shows have framed (often exaggerated) stereotypes as the norm. While fraternities & sororities do hold social events, these also take on many forms including brotherhood/sisterhood events, educational programs/workshops, community service events, intramural sports, Greek Week, and date events.
Who actually is in charge of the organization, and is there outside support?
Students elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees, so everyone is involved in and exposed to leadership positions. Each member learns cooperation, communication, and planning skills. Each group is governed by its inter/national headquarters, which established their chapter’s regulations, and offers advice and direction through professional staff and volunteers. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life staff consists of professional staff that support the fraternity & sorority community, offering support, advice, guidance, and direction to governing councils, chapter officers, advisors, and general members.
What about hazing in fraternities & sororities?
Shippensburg University does not tolerate hazing behavior and our policy regarding hazing is consistent with state law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. You can learn more about our Antihazing Policy on our Student Conduct website. Hazing is contrary to the purposes of the fraternity and sorority experience and in our University community. If you sense you may be experiencing inappropriate activities as a result of membership in a fraternity or sorority, you should contact the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life or the Office of Student Conduct. You can also report an incident online.
You can view Shippensburg University's bi-annual hazing report online as well.
