CHATGPT RUSH ADVICE

UMD Freshman Guide to Rushing

Maryland is primarily a bar school, and Greek life has been on the decline in recent years. That said, if you’re looking to meet people, build a social circle, and be part of the party scene, rushing a fraternity can still be a great move.

Important Note:
Fraternity ranks and social relations shift every year — and even vary between class years. What’s seen as “top” for juniors might not be the same for freshmen. This list is based on current trends like bar presence, party/darty activity, and sorority relations. Use it as a reference, not a rule.

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Top Tier
These fraternities are the most socially relevant right now. Strong bar presence, invites to major events, and solid connections with top sororities.
• Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) – Well-balanced socially. Strong at darties and bar nights. Generally respected across grades.
• Sigma Chi (Sig Chi) – Big with top sororities. More focused on bar/formal events than darties.
• Theta Chi (OX) – Merged with Phi Delt. Took a hit a couple years ago but are rebuilding and active in major events.
• Sigma Nu (SNU) – Previously dominant but lost momentum after losing their party house. Still strong socially and may rise again if their house returns.

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Upper Mid Tier
Consistently active frats with decent party/darty scenes and sorority involvement. Maybe not as visible as top tier but still relevant.
• Tau Epsilon Phi (TEP) – Hosts TEPFest, one of the biggest darties of the year. Great relations and strong day party presence.
• Delta Sigma Phi (DSig) – Smart academically, but also a legit party house. Balanced vibe.
• Lambda Chi Alpha (Lambda) – Recently off SoMo (social probation). Active again and generally solid.
• Zeta Psi – Never on probation. Steady socially, decent relations, not the flashiest but respected.
• Kappa Alpha Order (KA) – Still recovering from a past suspension. Restricted in throwing but starting to bounce back.

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Mid Tier
Not huge bar/social presence but own key darty houses and are very active in the daytime scene.
• Alpha Delta Phi (ADPhi) – Own two darty houses. Consistent events and big during daytime weekends.
• Beta Theta Pi (Beta) – Similar to ADPhi. Strong darty presence, lower-key at bars.

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Lower Tier
Currently not very active socially. Limited bar or event presence, but things can change over time.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)
• Phi Kappa Tau (Phi Tau)
• Alpha Sigma Phi (Alpha Sig)
• Sigma Phi Society (Sig Phi)
• Sigma Alpha Mu (Sammy)

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Final Thoughts
Ranks don’t matter nearly as much as fit. Go where you vibe with the people. The best experience comes from joining a group that feels right for you — not just what’s seen as “top.” Trust your instincts and keep an open mind during rush.

Good luck.