This is what Greek Life is really about

“Just friends that you pay for” say some people about Greek Life on college campuses. Then, in the movies, it’s “Parties all the time.”

But it is much more than that.

At Meet the Greeks, part of Welcome Week at the Purdue University campus in Hammond, fraternities and sororities talked about their missions, answered questions, and gave advice to first year students even if they were not looking to become an associate member.

Students choose not to join because Greek Life isn’t the form of community they are looking for. Others are intimidated by the big Greek organizations.

The movies make Greek Life look like an entirely different realm from everyone else, but they are people that love their communities and everyone inside of those communities.

Even those that are interested in joining a Greek club often have negative impressions until they come to events and socialize with people in Greek organizations.

People join Greek Life for the sense of community. A fraternity or sorority brings people of similar backgrounds or walks of life together in one big community.

Co-ed fraternities, although not common, bring people of more diverse backgrounds together.

Marisol Martinez is an Alpha Psi Lambda member; it has male and female members. She says, “I could guarantee love everyone in the room, and a room full of people with the same letters is a room full of comfort and family.”

This sense of community comes without judgment, unconditionally and full-heartedly.

The brother and sisterhood extend beyond the individual fraternity and sorority; it is the entire community.

Community service is a big part of Greek life at PNW. The sorority Zeta Phi Beta does a plethora of different services like support for the homeless and domestic violence victims; they have programs for men and youth as well.

Greeks also have study hours and support for students, even those outside of Greek Life, especially during finals week.

Weekly study hours give an extra boost to fellow students. Asking for help is encouraged; groups with the same major study together, and along with this comes an abundance of support.

Greek Life challenges and uplifts its members. The events and fundraising come with more than just going and showing up.

Greek Life is multifaceted. It offers encouragement and builds confidence, resulting in personal growth that can be used in and outside of the classroom.