<p>I am well aware that Middlebury does not have the formal, or should I say, 'traditional,' fraternity scene, that it had years ago, but I was hoping a current student or recent Midd grad could elaborate on the Social House system that is in place today. How many houses are there and what is the "rush" like. I understand that these houses are co-ed, so does this detract from the fraternal camaraderie the greek system fosters at other colleges. What are the houses like, physically speaking, and do they have formals and some exclusive parties for members only? Are the rest of their parties open to anyone on campus and when do people pledge? Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks.</p>
<p>first of all i am not a member of any social house on campus, but i have friends in various houses.
there are about five social houses right now (i'm not absolutely sure if one got the boot for too much party damage)
xenia: a dry social house (don't know much else). a really nice physical house.
kdr: technically a fraternity that does exist at other colleges. midd is the alpha chapter. the house is quite old, but still loved. (and like 15 minutes from the rest of campus on foot). i hear rumor that people won't be able to live in it much longer due to problems with the foundation. this is the one i'm most familiar with, but honestly rush is something that is kept pretty secret, though i do know it's "dry".
delta: this one is being reinstated so i know nothing about it, except the actual house is quite nice
tavern: a fun party place. connections with kdr. (as in they are friends not competitors really)
the mill: the artsy social house that is know for crazy parties. it is a very self-selective kind of place. the house itself is right on the edge of campus.</p>
<p>parties are generally open, but sometimes they have closed events. i haven't heard anything about formals (sports banquets are more popular). as of the spring, freshmen were going to be allowed to rush but that might change depending on what the president says. </p>
<p>hope this helps</p>
<p>i totally agree with what gonzo lux says about the social house system. i personally have really enjoyed the social house parties, and every friday and saturday night you could find one to go and have fun at. it's not that crazy and the social houses don't create a big effect on campus, so i think the system in midd is the ideal.</p>
<p>Thanks.....when do people "pledge?"</p>
<p>spring semester is "rush."</p>