<p>Ok I am going to be a Sophomore at UIUC in business, and would just like to give some advice for incoming Freshman. I know you've probably read a lot of information about how big greek life is here at U of I and that although this is true you "don't" have to join a fraternity. Well, I'm here to tell you that if you're looking to have a good time that is in fact the WRONG decision. Joining a fraternity will be the best decision you make at U of I if you're into partying the slightest. The opportunities to meet new people and have fun are endless at UIUC. Take advantage when you get here.</p>
<p>Also the first few days moving into such a large campus can be very intimidating. Don’t worry because everyone else is probably feeling the same apprehension. Look to meet new people and be friendly. You will make friends because everyone else is trying to do the same thing.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t take this advice. Going into my junior year and haven’t joined a frat. I have yet to have a weekend night where I don’t have a good time. Greek system isn’t for everybody. If it’s something your interested in, check it out, but if not don’t worry about it.</p>
<p>Whats your favorite things about UIUC? Anyone can respond, Id love to hear your input</p>
<p>It’s not a question of being able to have a good time on the weekends. It’s U of I anyone can find something to do. Im talking about other benefits. I agree though Greek life isn’t for everyone. </p>
<p>My favorite things are the social opportunities and diversity of the people you meet on the way. Plus, the campus is always thriving and beautiful.</p>
<p>i’d like to add that one shouldn’t get caught up with the house rankings. don’t rush a house just because it’s “top tier.” make your decision on the quality of the brothers and what their priorities are. these guys are going to be your closest friends for the majority of your time at college, and when you’re paying hundreds in dues and housing fees, you might as well be around people you enjoy.</p>
<p>cubs77, I hope to go to UIUC for business in 2012. What fraternity are you in? Is your fraternity related to you being in business or is it just a social fraternity? Also, roughly how much more expensive is it to be in a fraternity? One more thing. When do most people join a fraternity? Is it middle of freshman year or what? And can you join during any year? Your help would be greatly appreciated. Also, if you want you could tell me why you think being in a fraternity is so great. Thanks</p>
<p>bump…anyone can answer my last questions, not just cubs77. I would appreciate any good information somebody could give me. Thanks</p>
<p>bump…can’t anyone give me some info and help me out?</p>
<p>gbaby1, there are both business fraternities and Greek fraternities available. Both have a social aspect and philanthropic aspect, but business fraternities obviously are more about making the most out of your business education, making connections, getting career advice, etc. Business fraternities are also very competitive.</p>
<p>Fall of freshman year is the common time to pledge a fraternity. There’s also Spring rush available, but it might not be open for all frats. You can pledge as a freshman, sophomore, and beyond, but frats really do prefer freshman/sophomore pledges.</p>
<p>Thank you Big10Champ, Also if I was to join a social fraternity or a business fraternity, is there a HUGE time commitment and must attend events or would I still be able to study as often as I would like and keep my studies as my #1 priority? Also, besides the business fraternities do any of the social fraternities have connections to big time business graduates? Lastly, do the business fraternities still interact alot with the other social fraternities (parties, etc.)?</p>
<ol>
<li>How much more or less is it to join a frat?</li>
<li>How good/crappy are the houses to live in?</li>
<li>Do we have to move in them?</li>
</ol>
<p>gbaby1,</p>
<p>Both types of fraternities have pretty big time commitments, but you’ll find stellar scholars in each, so maintaining your grades is possible. Friends that I knew who joined social fraternities first semester did keep odd hours. Certain pledge activities (NOT parties) may keep you at the house till 2 or 3am on weekdays. And if there is a party you’ll most likely be responsible for working it and coming in the next morning to clean.</p>
<p>Business fraternities that have exchanges will meet up with other business frats, as they are not really a part of the social Greek system. Social fraternities have exchanges with sororities. But during rush, social frat parties are open to everyone.</p>
<p>As for connections, I don’t really know about that. You’ll probably find connections in either one you join. Social frats might be closer due to you being a brother, and alumni visit and make donations every so often.</p>
<p>boramk,</p>
<ol>
<li>Do you mean cost? If so, that’s going to vary among the houses.</li>
<li>Depends on your standards. Most of the houses are pretty old, though a couple frats did get new houses in the past year or so. Most look pretty similar on the inside though. The frats who have parties regularly and drinking at the house look worse than the frats that don’t.</li>
<li>For sororities there is a mandatory living period in the house, frats I’m sure work the same way. Even if you don’t live in you’ll probably be required to pay as if you are, so you might as well live there.</li>
</ol>
<p>What do U of I frat parties consist of? Drinking and hook ups basically? Also do you have to be in a frat to get in the party?</p>
<p>Feel free to laugh at me</p>
<p>pretty much. drinking, drinking games, a few have dance floors and loud music. after the first few weeks you pretty much have to be in the frat or at least know a few members.</p>
<p>So what is there to do if one chooses not to go Greek? I’ve heard 20% of the university is Greek is that right? That is quite a lot, but also means 80% are independent. Yet everyone says if you don’t go Greek your social life is severely effected. I personally don’t want to go Greek but I really don’t want to be having nothing to do in college. Help?</p>
<p>I’m in the exact same boat as you collegekang. I want to have a lot of fun in college (going to parties, etc.) but am pretty independent so don’t really want to join a fraternity. Can you still have a great social life and go to lots of big parties without joining a fraternity. Any help would be appreciated.</p>