Greek Life Reality Check
by: skepticgreek
Okay, can we collectively admit that “you paid for your friends” isn't entirely wrong? Yes, I love my org. Yes, I found some amazing people, but... it is a paid membership. Dues aren’t just casual donations - it's real money that not everyone talks about until it’s too late. Living in-house? Even more. And I get it - there's a lot that those dues go to: events, philanthropy, etc. But transparency would go a long way.
I know this probably comes off as a rant (sorry not sorry) but I just want others' perspectives on this. It’s just frustrating how Greek life still feels a little elitist when cost is the barrier no one wants to admit. Paying for the opportunity to interact and bond that then ~hopefully~ leads to actual friendships, but pretending the financial part doesn't matter is a little naïve.
Curious if other chapters are open about this with PNMs or if it's still kinda kept quiet? Let’s hear it. No shade, just some honesty from someone who’s in it and still enjoys it, but wants some opinions.
#1 by: true
totally hear you! Greek life is expensive and that can quietly gatekeep who gets in. i think the “you paid for your friends” line gets tossed around way too simplistically, but it also glosses over a real issue.
you are calling for transparency which i don't think makes you a hater. it just means that you are someone who actually wants the system to be better and more honesty during recruitment wouldn’t hurt!
Comment#2 by: Partially agreed
While costs can definitely keep certain demographics out of greek life, the benefits far outweigh the costs if you have the money to pay out of pocket.
On campus room and board is much more expensive than living in your chapter house. The chapter’s chef and catering is also much better than dining hall food. You can also build lots of connections which can help your career/get you internships. You can also get leadership roles which look good on your post grad or career applications.
I do wish that chapters were more transparent on exactly where all the funds go and that it was easier for those with less funds to join greek life though.
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