Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fraternity or a sorority?
A fraternity or sorority is a group of men or women bound together by brotherhood or sisterhood, common goals, and aspirations. The members that form a fraternity or sorority share their efforts, friendship, and knowledge. Together these members learn, grow and make the fraternity and sorority stronger. Their common experience builds ties that last a lifetime. This forms a brotherhood or sisterhood amongst members which helps to develop strong and creative leadership leading to success.
Though there are many different fraternities and sororities here at Cornell, they all share common founding principles that are of interest any Cornell student. Fraternities and sororities enhance your educational experience by emphasizing intellectual, interpersonal, and social development. The ideals of lifelong friendship, sound education, campus and community service, and social interaction are what fraternity and sorority members strive to live by every day.
Are fraternities just like those on TV and in the movies?
Every fraternity is different and unique. Cornell prides itself on hosting 66 fraternities and sororities, each with their own characteristics and personalities. The images portrayed in the movies and on TV shows do not reflect those attitudes at Cornell University.
Fraternity and Sorority members are very cliquish, aren't they?
This could not be further from the truth. Our fraternity and sorority students represent a large variety of ethnic, economic, and social backgrounds. Students of all majors and interests are affiliated with a fraternity or sorority. One of the greatest aspects of Fraternity & Sorority Life is that each chapter offers something different to each member. Also, many members of the Cornell Greek community are involved in various other organizations in addition to their specific chapter! As stated previously, Panhellenic women are involved in numerous organizations outside of Greek Life, such as student government, athletics, community service organizations, clubs, and so much more!
Don't fraternities and sororities take up a lot of time?
While each fraternity and sorority membership requirements differ, a general range for commitment is anywhere from 2 to 8 hours a week. Whether it be a community service project, planning an event, or regular weekly meetings, members have learned to manage their time wisely with other commitments such as schoolwork, a job, friends outside of their chapter, as well as other organizations that they are involved with.
It is important to note that during the initial New Member process more time will be required. At the same time, each chapter understands the importance of scholarship and respects each New Member’s need to study. Time management is important during this stage!
Aren't fraternities & sororities expensive?
Annual membership dues vary per semester. An estimated range is anywhere from $200 to $900 each semester. This cost is used to pay for the upkeep of the chapter’s suite, community service events, scholarships, intramurals, and many of the social events offered.
As some say - "Greek life is the best deal at college."
If I'm new to campus, should I wait until I know my way around classes and campus before I join?
Cornell University is a large campus. What better way than to start making the campus smaller than to meet people through joining a sorority?
The sooner you know more people; the chances are the more comfortable you will feel on campus. By joining your first year, you will find adjusting to life in Ithaca, NY a lot easier. While joining as a sophomore and junior is highly encouraged as well, many of the women who waited a year until going Greek wish that they had gone Greek sooner!
What is Recruitment?
Recruitment is the time when Sororities and Fraternities seek and recruit new members. The recruitment events are at different times for men and for women. Panhellenic Recruitment is a time when women interested in Greek life have the opportunity to visit the various sorority chapters and to see what each has to offer.
For more information regarding Recruitment, please feel free to either browse this site or to email the Vice President of Formal Membership Recruitment.
If I go through Rush/Recruitment, do I have to join?
No. Recruitment is a time to see what Sorority Life can offer to you. We invite you to explore the various opportunities available to you as a Cornell Greek!
Going through Recruitment and its functions does not commit you to joining in any way!
What is Bid Day/Bid House?
Bid Day is when women pick up their invitations to join a sorority. Bid Day takes place after the last round of recruitment, Preference Night. This is an extremely exciting time as it is the first time that your New Member class will come together.
I'm interested, but I'm still not sure.
Many of the women in the Cornell Greek Community came into Cornell unsure if Greek Life was for them as well. Many of them now wonder what they would be doing without their sisters and the wonderful opportunities presented to them as a Cornell Greek Woman.
Remember, we are here to help YOU! Please feel free to contact us and ask any questions that you might have about going Greek!
