Sorority Financial Advisement

<p>Hello! I will be rushing for sorority in about a month and had some questions about it that you guys can hopefully answer. Okay to start out, my biggest concern about joining a sorority is the financial part. My parents have refused to pay for greek life for me which means I have to come up with the money on my own. Fortunately, I have an on campus job next year working as a desk assistant. I have enough money to handle my new member dues but not enough to pay my first semester expenses. So my question is, is it financially possible for me? I have no other bills to pay, that would be my only bill. Also, they say that the first year is around $2400-2700 and the following years are $1500. Also, if I can't afford my sorority dues, is it wise to pay it on credit card and pay it back monthly? I'm just looking for guidance! </p>

<p>Many chapters can make arrangements for you to pay monthly, or some other period payment plan. You could ask about that during recruitment…but you might want to wait and not do it the first round, there’s just not enough time. You have to remember, something is ALWAYS going to go wrong. Your car may need new tires, or there may be unexpected fees with a particular course, or you get a speeding ticket…you have to always plan a cushion. And sometimes dues don’t include fees for formals, or T shirts and pix, or the cost of having a little sister. Some sororities wear matching outfits for recruitment, and require their members to buy them (sometimes the sorority buys them), or to wear a certain style of shoe. </p>

<p>That said, the first year IS the most expensive since you have extra fees associated with pledging and initiation.</p>

<p>Only you can know if you can handle it. You might want to wait until sophomore year to get used to work and college life. Think carefully about this. Best of luck to you!</p>

<p>Thank you so much for responding Southlander! I think I will continue with it and make it work haha! I’ve always wanted to do this so I’m willing to do whatever it takes! Your information has been really helpful. Thanks again! :slight_smile: </p>