Interfraternity Council Recruitment

More than any other single organization on campus, fraternities and sororities offer leadership opportunities, lifelong friendships, human service and philanthropic activities, cultural opportunities, social activities, scholastics, intramural sports, personal development, and group living environments; all wrapped up into one organization. Joining a fraternity or sorority chapter will help make the transition to college much easier. Developing a sense of belonging and making new friends in the chapter can make the campus seem much smaller.

Many friendships made through the chapter will last into post-college years. Fraternities and sororities have national networks for its members that help with careers and job relocations. Membership in a chapter can be a lifelong experience that the member and fraternity or sorority enjoy together. Wherever a member ends up after college, chances are that he or she will be able to find an alumni chapter or other members of their fraternity or sorority in the area.

When a student joins a fraternity or sorority, he or she becomes part of a larger group of students who have already made it through their first year at Cal Poly. Older members, who may have the same major as the student, can provide advice and assistance. Most chapters have a scholarship officer who initiates programs within the chapter to encourage high academic achievement. Ultimately however, the responsibility for succeeding in the classroom is up to the individual student.

The perception of fraternities and sororities may be that they are only for well-to-do students, but Greek membership is actually quite affordable, and the fees go to services that will enhance the student’s college experience. Many students choose to work to help pay their dues to the chapter. To assist members, chapters may offer payment plans or scholarships. The Greek experience is an investment in the student’s future. The skills and experience gained through participation in the chapter will continue to benefit members years after graduation.

Fraternities and sororities recognize that it is important for members to meet their financial obligations and many students will work to help finance their education. Working students can still take advantage of the opportunities available in the Greek community.

The time commitment varies from chapter to chapter. The first quarter is the most intensive as new members learn the history of the organization and participate in activities that connect the student to campus. After initiation, members’ commitments vary. Each chapter has weekly meetings and plans various events throughout the year (social, service, philanthropies, initiation). The more the student puts into the chapter, the more he or she will benefit from being a member.

All national governing bodies for fraternities and sororities prohibit all forms of hazing. Hazing, or any activity that injures, degrades or disgraces any student, is not tolerated. All allegations are investigated. If you ever feel your student may be participating in or subjected to inappropriate activities, please contact the coordinator of fraternity and sorority affairs at (805) 756-7263. To report Hazing fill out the Hazing Report Form click here.

Campus policy does not allow alcoholic beverages at any off-campus function hosted by a chartered Cal Poly fraternity or sorority, except when private service for members and guests is arranged by contract with a properly licensed distributor. Additionally, each national organization has policies and guidelines addressing the use of alcohol.

Panhellenic recruitment takes place the first weekend after classes begin in the fall. The Interfraternity Council sponsors recruitment events both in the fall and winter. United Fraternity & Sorority Council recruitment processes take place at the beginning of Fall quarter.
For more information, visit our recruitment website.