Fraternity Questions

  • Q: What is a fraternity?

    A: A fraternity is a group of men who adhere to the same ideals and principles, work together toward common goals, and are bound together by rituals and the highest possible level of friendship. Fraternities strive to develop the individual talents of members and each member uses these talents for the benefit of the whole.

    Q: What do fraternity dues pay for?

    A: Fraternity dues pay for a chapter's dues to its National Organization, dues to the UT Interfraternity Council, liability insurance, house upkeep, tuition at leadership conferences, intramural supplies, scholarship incentives, and social activities.

    Q: How do I register for Rush?

    A: Registration for Rush is mandatory. The IFC encourages Rushees to complete a Rush registration card. Rushees can receive a Rush registration card at the Greek Life information session during summer orientation or may register under the Rush Registration tab.

    Q: If I go through Rush, do I have to join a fraternity?

    A: Although most men who participate in Rush decide to accept a bid from a fraternity, you are not required to join. Many men participate in Rush because the average Rushee meets between 10 and 50 new people in the first night. Because it is an excellent chance to get acquainted with UT's most outstanding students, the IFC recommends that all young men interested in making new friends participate in Rush. Participating in Rush does not obligate you in anyway.

    Q: Are Housing and Meals Required?
     
    A: Freshman students may not live in fraternity houses. Those wishing to live in a fraternity house will have that option during their sophomore year. Fraternity meal plans are not required for pledges though some chapters will allow pledges to buy a fraternity meal plan. If you are a resident of a Fraternity House on campus, a Fraternity Meal Plan is also available through Volunteer Dining.  The Fraternity Meal Plan was designed by fraternity members and the cost is $350 per semester and consists of 4 meals per week.  Dining Dollars may be added to this plan at any time.  To sign up for the Fraternity Meal Plan go to www.utdining.com.


    Q: Will membership in a fraternity hurt my grades?

    A: Contrary to popular belief, Greek Organizations assist members in achieving high academic marks. Through such techniques as mandatory study hours, networking between members, incentives, and scholarship, fraternities have been able to substantially enhance the learning environment of their members. In the UT Fraternity System, academics continue to be a top priority.
     
     

    Greek Vocabulary

    Active - a member of a fraternity
    Alumnus - (plural alumni) a member of a fraternity who has graduated from college.
    Bid - an invitation to a Rushee to join a fraternity.
    Brother - A term used by active members of a fraternity when referring on one another.
    Chapter - the local group of the national organization.
    Fraternity - A group of men bound together by ritual ties and common goals.
    Greek - A member of a fraternity or sorority.
    Hazing - Mental or Physical degradation of any person which is strictly forbidden by University Policy.
    Independent - A person who is not a member of a fraternity or sorority.
    Initiation - The traditional ritual that brings the pledge into full active membership in the fraternity.
    IFC - The Interfraternity Council, a representative governing body of all men's fraternities.
    Legacy - A prospective member whose father or brother is an alumn or active member of a particular fraternity.
    NIC - National Interfraternity Council
    NPC - National Panhellenic Conference
    NPHC - National Pan-Hellenic Conference
    Panhellenic - A representative governing body of all sororities.
    Pin - (2 types) the active pin or badge, a distinctive insignia worn on the chest designating an active member of a particular fraternity. The pledge pin, an insignia used to designate a pledge of a particular fraternity.
    Pledge - (also associate member) A trial member of a fraternity working to become an active.
    Ritual - The traditional secret ceremonies of a fraternity.
    Rush Week - the period in which fraternities and potential members become acquainted.
    Rush Chairman - An active member of a fraternity who is in charge of recruitment efforts for his chapter.