Frequently Asked Questions
What is fraternity membership all about?
Fraternity membership encourages the values of loyalty, scholarship and service. Fraternities create a foundation of leadership and responsibility that will help their members succeed in life’s endeavors. The bond that is established between members of a fraternity will last throughout life, in times of celebration and tribulation. Fraternities develop their members into the leaders of tomorrow by challenging them to excel both academically and socially. Fraternities do not make a man a different person but rather the best version of himself.
Why is joining a fraternity so expensive?
The dues for each fraternity vary from chapter to chapter. However, dues are most commonly used on meals, staff salaries, chapter house maintenance, social events, international and local dues, educational programming, leadership development and materials, and community service projects. Be sure to ask specific questions about finances during recruitment!
Note, in most organizations, the first year of membership may be more expensive as new members pay one-time fees for items such as membership pin, new member books, etc.
Once I join a fraternity, will I be able to eat meals at the chapter house?
The University of Mississippi requires all freshmen to have a university meal plan. Students can switch to the “Going Greek” meal plan after accepting a bid to their fraternity.
When students join a fraternity or sorority, their membership dues include meals at the house, when available. Typically this is breakfast, lunch and dinner on weekdays, with dinner not available on Friday and no meals on Saturday or Sunday. If students are members of a fraternity or sorority in the spring semester of their freshman year, there is an opportunity for them to switch to a Greek meal plan. For more information about meal plans, please contact Ole Miss Dining Services.
Is it difficult to balance fraternity life and academics?
Time management is the key. Many fraternity men are able to manage fraternity responsibilities, jobs or internships, academics and involvement in other campus organizations. If you are interested in joining a fraternity but have concerns about the time commitment, feel free to ask members during recruitment how they balance their time.
Can I go through Formal Recruitment as an upperclassmen?
Yes. Most potential new members may be first-year students, but upperclassmen are also encouraged to register.
How will I know which organization is right for me?
Each fraternity has its own mission, creed and values that it lives by; however, overall, IFC organizations strive to provide members with friendship, opportunities for personal growth/development and fun. To choose a chapter that is right for you, you should do some research, attend IFC recruitment events and visit organizations’ social media pages. Formal recruitment is a process designed to allow you and the chapters to decide on the best fit. As you go through the process, be sure to keep an open mind, ask questions, and be yourself!
What if I am going to miss or be late for an event during Formal Recruitment?
If you need to miss an event during Formal Recruitment you must alert the Recruitment Team by filling out an Absence Form available through the Forum. The Recruitment Team will then communicate excused absences to Rho Alphas and Chapter Recruitment Chairs.
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What is the University of Mississippi’s Hazing Policy?
Hazing is against the law. As is stated in the UM Creed, the University of Mississippi strongly believes in being “a community of learning dedicated to nurturing excellence in intellectual inquiry and personal character in an open and diverse environment.” As such, students at the University believe in the respect and dignity of each person. Both the Interfraternity Council and the University of Mississippi strictly prohibit hazing of any form.
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