Transitioning from high school to college life can be difficult for many students. Many college students find that joining a fraternity or sorority is a great way tomeet friends and be a part of their college's rich social setting while embracing academic life.  

Joining a fraternity or sorority allows you to meet new friends and take part in all your college has to offer. You will learn important leadership skills and perform extensive community service that will have you bonding with house members in no time. Also, Greek organizations feature tons of fun and memorable events throughout the school year, including:

Rush 
Rush is the event where sororities and fraternities invite students to their houses. Talk with members at each of the houses and find out what the pros and cons of the organizations are. Try to get a feeling of the unique vibe each house offers.

• Bid Day
  Once you decide what your favorite house is and that house is accepting new members, you'll spend some time with the members in that house. If the members feel that your character matches the mission of their organization, they'll give you a "bid". A bid is a formal invitation asking you to join their fraternity or sorority. If you accept, you will most likely attend the organization's meetings and spend an extensive amount of time with the house members. They will soon truly feel like brothers and sisters.
  

• Induction
  You may have heard of the rituals or "secrets" that Greek organizations have. At initiation, you'll learn the rituals and the significant meanings they have in regard to the mission of the organization. They'll help you grow as a person and bond you with the other house members.
  

• Community Service
  Greek organizations are known for their community service. From raising money for charities and helping local children, you'll be learning valuable life lessons while having fun with your new friends. Community service will also encourage you to speak up for what matters most to you, as well as network and establish local contacts.
  

• Leadership
  College can be scary at first and holding a leadership role may seem impossible. Joining a fraternity or sorority enables you to easily gain leadership experience by fulfilling one of the leadership roles in your house. You'll soon find you have more confidence than you ever did before!
  

• Formals and Parties
  Greek organizations stress academics first, but they also recognize that a rich college experience involves fun social activities. Take a break from studying by attending a formal or party. Dive in to the Greek experience by helping plan formals and parties. You'll feel rewarded when all the guests say what a fun time they are having.

Embrace college life by joining a fraternity or sorority.  GreekLife embodies a true college experience, and you will make friends for life!

Already a Greek? Show your pride and wear your letters. GreekGear.com carries a full line of officially licensed clothing and merchandise for all fraternities and sororities.