How prevalent is fraternity life at Georgia Tech? Is it true that it’s “impossible” to have a social life at Tech without being in a fraternity? On the other hand, does being in a fraternity take up so much time that you can’t join some clubs/organizations because of all the events? Also, how “intense” are the fraternities? (In comparison to big state schools like UMichigan or UTexas, I’d assume GT fraternities are much less “wild”?) I’m trying to decide if fraternity life is right for me if I attend GT, so any other details about frat life would be great!
When I attended a generation ago, frat life was pretty big. Some were wild, but probably not as wild in general as at UGA. I couldn’t really say what its like now, particularly with the influx of international students. Hopefully a current student or more recent grad will be along to fill you in on that. That being said, GT is an urban campus in the middle of a giant metropolitan area with several other large (and small) universities. The city itself offers a zillion things to do. Frat life may be more important for the support structure it offers for an exceedingly academically rigorous environment than for anything else.
Fraternity rush is super laid back. You can go and just get free food and you never have to accept a bid anywhere if you don’t like the guys you meet at any fraternity. I’m in a sorority and Greek life is definitely a big part of the social scene on campus, so I would really suggest checking it out, but you can always rush spring or your sophomore year if you don’t find the right fit when you’re first rushing. I’d really recommend checking it out though! Greek life isn’t just all parties, there’s a lot of close friendships and people to do homework with and networking and philanthropic events.