Parents Information

A Parents’ Guide to Fraternities

As a parent, it’s a good idea for you to learn about fraternities and sororities so you can help your son make the best decision about whether or not he should be part of the Greek life. This information is to help give you more insight as to what fraternities stand for.

Academics

Academics should be your child’s number one focus while in college. That’s why most Greek organizations require a minimum GPA in order to remain a member. Usually, each individual chapter has an elected official who is responsible for keeping track of members and their academic performance. Furthermore, many fraternities have educational programs, such as tutoring and study sessions, which can assist the entire chapters in excelling academically. Most chapters also offer member scholarships. Since obtaining a degree is the main reason for attending college, make sure your student realizes that he must keep up his grades if he wants to participate in a Greek organization.

Financial Responsibility

Your son will have financial responsibilities when it comes to joining a fraternity or sorority. At most schools, there is a one-time new member/initiation fee as well as semester membership dues. Depending on where your son goes to school and to which organization he wants to join will determine the amount of dues he will have to pay each semester. If your child is really interested in becoming a member of the Greek life, you need to sit down with him and work out a college budget to determine whether or not joining a fraternity is affordable. 

Hazing

In the past, fraternities and sororities have received a bad rap for participating in hazing, which is any action taken that produces bodily harm or danger, mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, fright, or ridicule. Today, all fraternity and sorority policies strictly prohibit any type of hazing activity. In fact, the organizations have taken on a zero-tolerance stance on this issue. Subject: We want to inform you about our university's updated hazing policies, aligning with Louisiana's strict laws against hazing. Offenders face imprisonment and fines up to $10,000 for activities leading to serious harm or high blood alcohol levels. Reporting obligations are reinforced, and organizations permitting hazing can be fined up to $10,000. Students found guilty of hazing are subject to expulsion or suspension. Please discuss these policies with your student to ensure a safe campus environment.

Time Commitment

On average, your student should expect to contribute two to four hours per week for meetings and mandatory activities. If your student has the time, he can also choose to participate in optional activities, such as holding an office, attending social events, helping out with various projects, etc. Some organizations require more time than others. Advise your child to ask questions regarding time commitments during recruitment.

Activities

Fraternities participate in many different activities. The kind of activities your student may participate in will vary depending on which chapter he joins. Possible activities may include:

• Fundraising for charities

• Participating in intramural sports

• Conducting environmental and neighborhood cleanups

• Organizing clothing and book collections

• Volunteering at shelters

• Attending social mixers

You should discuss with your son what he would like to do and then support his decision. If your student decides that joining an organization is the right decision, make sure he thoroughly researches the different chapters located on UL Lafayette's campus.

As a parent, it’s a good idea for you to learn about fraternities so you can help your son make the best decision about whether or not he should be part of the Greek life. This information is to help give you more insight as to what fraternities stand for.

Questions? 

If you have any questions or concerns about Greek Life at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Office of Student Engagement and Leadership or the Interfraternity Council (IFC). They are dedicated to providing support and information regarding recruitment, values, activities, and any specific concerns you may have about your student's involvement in Greek Life. Feel free to contact Office of Student Engagement and Leadership or the Interfraternity Council for assistance. We appreciate your partnership in ensuring a positive experience for your student at UL Lafayette.