p>Fraternities and sororities are unique organizations on campus. They are a student organization recognized by the University of Memphis, but also a local chapter of a national organization with undergraduate chapters at colleges and universities across the nation. First, they are values-based organizations that create opportunities for students to get involved in campus life. Each group focuses their activities around what we call the Pillars of Fraternity and Sorority Life: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, Scholarship, Leadership, and Service.

More than 10% of the undergraduate students at University of Memphis are members of fraternities and sororities. That tracks consistently with many of our peer institutions.

Students should consider time commitments when joining any organization on campus. Fraternity and sorority membership does require a commitment of time. You should count on your student participating in regular weekly meetings along with service projects, leadership programs, and social activities throughout the year. Like any activity, students need to strike a good balance with their commitments.

The greatest benefit to joining is finding small groups of students that help make a large campus feel like home. Students can take on chapter leadership roles, gain experience through community service, and get involved in campus leadership through their fraternity or sorority. Additionally, since membership is for a lifetime, these opportunities continue well past graduation.

Each organization sets its own budgets and dues so costs vary from chapter to chapter. Membership dues can range from $200 to $1000 each semester and each group includes different activities and fees in their structure. It is important that your student ask for a detailed breakdown of costs from any organization they consider joining.

Alcohol is challenging issue for college students in general and for fraternities and sororities. Organizations receive significant training from both Fraternity and Sorority Affairs and their national organizations regarding alcohol and risk management. All of our Panhellenic sororities and several fraternities prohibit alcohol in their chapter houses. Alcohol is not permitted in recruitment activities or new member education programs.

All chapters have a new member education program that is designed to teach them the history, traditions, values, and expectations of their organization. Hazing has no place in these programs and Fraternity and Sorority Affairs works closely with each local chapter and national organization to set clear expectations for new member activities. This includes setting reasonable limits on time commitments, activities, and length of program. If you have concerns about that hazing, may be occurring, please contact the Fraternity and Sorority Affairs and speak with a staff member.

Each sorority and fraternity at the University of Memphis is a local chapter of a national organization, which means they all have a governance structure that includes local and regional alumni volunteers and a national leadership structure. Fraternity and Sorority Affairs recognizes these undergraduate chapters and provides a level of oversight designed to promote a healthy experience for our students.

You should take an active interest in your student's fraternity or sorority membership, just as you would with an academic program. You can help them make good decisions by listening and offering good advice. It is important to remember that your student is an adult, their membership agreement is between them and their organization, and you can best help them by asking questions and helping them make the most of their membership.