On Friday, Jan. 17, the presidents from different fraternities and sororities run by Wright State University met for their annual retreat to network with past chapter presidents and WSU alumni.
About the event
Greek Life is a big part of the community built at WSU. There are 15 different fraternities and sororities available to students. Although it is important for each group to have activities together, it is also important for the presidents and leaders of each chapter to meet and figure out the best ways to support and lead their fraternities and sororities.
Anna Jones, the assistant director of Greek Life, helped set the retreat up and shared why this event is so beneficial for all of Greek life.
“This event is a great way to build social capital and build connections. We invited all the chapter presidents, alumni and advisors. This is our first networking event in a while, so we had about 50-75 participants this year. We’re hoping to grow in the future,” Jones said.
Jones was involved in a sorority when she attended WSU. She was a part of Kappa Delta, a sorority that is still active on campus today, and served as chapter president in her time as an undergraduate.
Getting involved
For any student looking to join a community at WSU, Greek Life is a great way to meet people, learn important skills and access lots of service opportunities.
There is open recruitment all year for sororities and fraternities, however the formal recruitment process takes place in the fall. If you join in the spring, the recruitment is much more informal. For those interested, visit wright.edu/joingreek and fill out the interest form.
Being involved in a fraternity or sorority goes beyond a campus club. There are members of these same chapters all over the country, and when you become a part of the chapter you get to join the community of hundreds of others.
“I am still in contact with some of the former chapter members of Kappa Delta,” Jones said.
Benefits of Greek Life
When people think of joining a sorority, the main thing they think of is the social aspect of being part of a community. Most people do not know all of the opportunities available to them through joining a Greek chapter.
Becca Reuber, the president of the Zeta Tau Alpha chapter, shared the most helpful aspects of joining a sorority.
“Being in Zeta Tau Alpha has given me the opportunity for different scholarships, helped me build my resume, networking with alums and I made lots of friends,” Reuber said.
In addition to having resources, being in a fraternity or sorority also helps you grow important skills.
Lacey Hamrick, the president of the Alpha Xi Delta chapter, talked about how she has improved from being in her sorority.
“When you’re in a sorority, you make lifelong connections with people who want to help you. I learned leadership skills and have become more philanthropic through AXiD,” Hamrick said.
Greek Life is a great way to become more involved on campus, make connections that can help you through your career and give back to the community. Members all have unique stories of what they have gained from their time as a Greek.
