Make Dues Doable

Sorority Dues Piggy Bank
 Sorority Dues Piggy Bank
 Melissa Krueger  

Joining a fraternity/sorority is arguably one of the most exciting times during your college career. Each person joins for something different: philanthropy, friends, parties, social status, and so on. But what you don’t get to choose is the cost. Every chapter’s dues vary wherever you go. Chapter dues cover costs like living in the house, apparel, socials and recruitment supplies just to name a few. Don’t think you can afford it? Think again.
There are ways to finance your commitment to Greek life. Don’t let a sometimes hefty fee deter you from some of the best years of your life.

  1. Make a payment plan. If you can’t pay the entire chunk of dues all at one time, try talking to the Executive Board of your chapter. They have connections with the national organization headquarters. More often than not, they will work with you to finance your dues through a payment plan or a scholarship.
  2. Get a part-time job on campus. Having a job while in college can be difficult. Balancing academics and work takes effort. However, getting a job with your university allows you to have the best of both worlds. Universities will work around your class schedule to ensure that you can prioritize your course workload. Apply to be a tour guide or work in an office on campus. You’ll make money without having to sacrifice your grades.
  3. Get part-time job off campus. Where there is a college population, there are almost always bars and restaurants. These establishments are accustomed to working with the scheduling needs of students.
  4. Work from home opportunities. Familiarize yourself with the concept of campus brand ambassador/representative positions. There are thousands of big and small brands looking to market anything from clothes to software to the college-aged demographic. Many brands will pay you to be their “boots on the ground” at your campus. Check out CampusBrander as a resource to help you find such opportunities.
  5. Smart spending. Whether it be on Starbucks every morning or drinks on the weekends, it’s easy to drain your account. Those $5 dollar drinks will add up quicker than you think. Start making your coffee at home or try cutting down on buying it at expensive coffee shops. For those of you 21 and older, when it comes to alcohol, go for the monthly bar specials or make your pre-games count.
  6. Withdraw from the National Bank of Mom and Dad. If all else fails, hit up the parents for help. Make a deal with them to pay them back over time. Ask for it as a birthday or holiday present. If they agree, make sure you thank them. They are providing you with opportunities to make lasting fun memories and networking connections that will come in handy come diploma time.

 

Whichever method you choose, know that you are investing in a lifetime commitment to your chapter and organization. Sisterhood/Brotherhood is not just four years. It is for life.

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