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| 06-16-2003 | Previous edition: 06-13-2003 |
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5,000 students call Greek system their homeBy Heather PostonSummer Reporter Purdue is home to the nation's third largest Greek system, which some say offers opportunities that can't be found anywhere else. With approximately 5,000 members and 20 percent of the student body belonging to it, the Greek system of Purdue has grown profusely since it was founded in 1875, said Andy Robison, assistant dean of students and Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic adviser. "(The Greek system) has been with the University for a long time," he said. Classes began at Purdue in 1874 and the Greek system was founded only a year later. He said that in the earlier days of Purdue, sororities and fraternities were much more influential than they are now. "Purdue's so big that you don't have to be Greek to be a significant leader or to get involved." He said belonging to the Greek system has its benefits. "It provides a home away from home," said Robison. "It makes a Big Ten university seem smaller — any student organization, for that matter, (will do that)." He also said the connection members have in Greek organizations is unlike any that can be found on campus. "It's a way to have an instant support system when you get to campus," he said. Robison said Greek life differs greatly from the portrayal of it on such television programs as "Sorority Life" and "Fraternity Life." "The biggest majority of that is junk," said Robison. He said those sororities and fraternities don't have the same type of alumni interaction that the Greek system at Purdue has. Rules are also stricter at Purdue as far as alcohol and hazing is concerned. "It's a mixed bag; none of the groups are perfect," said Robison. "Those are only slices of the whole package." Fraternities and sororities have their rush processes at different times. Fraternities have only informal rush and this happens all year long. Requirements include having at least a 2.25 GPA. Sororities have a formal recruitment that occurs in January. Those interested in rushing must have a 2.3 minimum GPA and must have earned at least 12 college credits. Some sororities conduct informal rush from January to March. There are also a vast variety of Greek organizations at Purdue, including some based on religion, ethnicity, school and major. According to Robison, anyone can join the religion and ethnicity-based fraternities and sororities. The Greek organizations with members in specific majors and schools are normally limited to only those requirements. Students will soon be able to access information about the Greek system of Purdue via its Web site www.purdue.edu/gogreek. Printer-friendly version |
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