When I thought about going Greek, I never imagined all of the
things that would change in my life,
FICTION
Hazing and other
dangerous practices are
a part of Greek life,
particularly during
‘rush” and “pledge”
FACT
I spent a lot of time around Greek groups. I think the harshest form of hazing I ever
encountered was one fraternity requiring its pledges to carry a kit with them at all times,
containing the university basics - cash, condoms and writing supplies. Rushing and pledging
are actually all about getting to know the group, and the group getting to know you.
One of the first Rush events I went to was an ice cream social. What a way to suck people
in! I sat and ate an ice cream sundae and listened to these women talk about their
organization. Delta Alpha Theta was just a few years old then, and one of three sororities on
campus. Founding members of the sorority were sitting there eating ice cream with me.
FACT
FICTION
All that secrecy must be
harmful and hide
criminal or other
negative behaviour
There’s actually very little that’s secret about Greek groups. We have various rituals but
none of them have any criminal activity involved - or negative behaviour. I will even go so far
as to say that my sorority’s most secret activity is actually all about loving and understanding
each other. We protect these rituals because they are what make us unique, from group to
group, and they’re part of what connects us as a group. I’ve told the girls in my sorority my
deepest, darkest secrets - my fears, hopes, dreams and nightmares. Of course I want those
things kept secret.