How to Join
Each governing council has a different structure for bringing new members into organizations. Once an individual is selected/invited to join, all groups have an education/orientation period for new members to familiarize themselves with the organization and members prior to initiation. While sometimes termed "New Member" period, this is not to be confused with hazing, which is illegal and against the values of brotherhood and sisterhood. If you think you are being hazed or need more information about anti-hazing efforts, review the Hazing Policy or contact the Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life at (717) 477-1848. In addition, please review the Guidelines for joining a fraternity or sorority for more information.
Inter-Fraternity Council (IFC) fraternities participate in Rush, which is typically held in the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters every year. During two weeks of events, prospective brothers have the opportunity to meet the members of the different organizations, and then are invited to the final nights of Rush leading up to the extension of Bids. Men then are able choose which organization to join based on individual best fit.
National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) sororities and fraternities decide individually when they are going to have a Membership Intake Process (or “Intake”), and will then hold an information/interest session and select candidates from those interested individuals. The best way to find out about Intake is to attend the programs of the fraternities or sororities you are interested in, and let the members know that you would like to know more about joining. More information regarding events held by these organizations can be addressed with the Multicultural Student Affairs Office at (717) 477-1616.
The process to join a Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) organization varies by the fraternity or sorority involved, although usually these groups hold intake like the NPHC groups as described above. To learn more about joining an MGC organization, attend their educational programs, interest meetings, or Meet the Greeks events. More information regarding events held by these organizations can be addressed with the Multicultural Student Affairs Office at (717) 477-1616.
Women's Panhellenic Council (WPC) sororities have a week of recruitment in the Fall & Spring each year. This week includes various fun & exciting events for potential sisters to meet members from all of the sororities on campus. Each event is an opportunity for potential new members (PNM's) to ask questions and experience what each organization has to offer. There is a mutual selection process culminating in what is termed Bid Day. For more information, please contact the Women's Panhellenic Council Executive Board by emailing greek@ship.edu.