So I am only a high school junior but am starting to look at colleges. Although I have no visited the Fsu campus, I heard it is beautiful and would like to see it in the future. My only question regarding Fsu is how the social life is regarding Greek life. Although my opinion may change, I don’t see myself joining a fraternity. I know at Uf Greek life is huge there and that is generally where the parties are. I am not a fan of this. Can any one comment on the geek life at Fsu and if it is generally in control of the social scene. I don’t mind Greek life I just don’t want the school I attend to be dominated by it. Also, are the people in Greek life very conserved and not very social with non-Greeks? Thanks and any info is appreciated.
Greek life is big but it isn’t everything. There’s a lot of other stuff to do than hang out with Greeks, seriously.
HI Pitt2021,
I recommend you visit FSU this year. It is a beautiful campus and I loved my experience there. Although I attended a long time ago, many things have not changed, and we have revisited and researched FSU a lot recently for my HS senior daughter. So, I’ll share my thoughts and experiences.
- Expect most state schools to have a strong Greek scene, not just UF. Check out liberal art schools if you don't like this about state schools. I would compare FSU's to UF's, but that doesn't have to be bad for you if you don't rush. I was in a sorority and loved it. It's a world within itself where you go to class but almost all of your social life is taken up by frat/sorority meetings, socials, philanthropies, competitions. rush, etc. So, you spend your time with Greeks for this reason. Frat parties are made up of frat guys, sorority girls, and some recent alumni. As a GDI, God Damn Independent, as we all referred to non Greeks, you would typically not be welcome to attend these parties unless through a friend that is in the frat. But who likes a party-crasher anyway or where.
- Personal opinion here: I have a son that I know I would not allow to rush when he is old enough. Hazing policies have improved but with frats there will always be at least a few guys up to push limits. Being a physically larger guy, with enough confidence and self-respect to walk away "if" another member insists you have to do something you don't want to do, is necessary. Not to mention, being in a frat does not fit a lot of guys' personality types. Frats are a mix just like in everyday life, but there is a group mentality that can run strong for some from becoming a brother.
- If you choose not to rush, there are plenty of other social options. There are apartment parties, tailgating, clubs, and many on-campus alcohol free options even http://union.fsu.edu/program-areas-departments/ . It's easiest for GDIs to meet new friends in their dorms and by joining clubs that meet frequently. There are also coed service frats that don't have a house but do community service and seem to bond quickly that way. Also, consider your major. My daughter probably won't rush only because she needs to insure enough time to ace premed prereqs. Some majors simply require too much study time.
Good luck!!!
@NorthFLmomof2 thank you very much. I will be pre med as well so I figured that was enough to keep me away but just wanted some opinions. Do either of your kids attend fsu, specifically your daughter?
My daughter was just accepted to FSU for this upcoming fall and is waiting to hear back from UF. She likes both, so we’ll see!
@NorthFLmomof2 congrats on the acceptance! What major?
As of “today”, nursing. 