<p>I'll be a freshman in the fall. I would like to go through rush but I'm starting to get a little scared. I don't know anyone in a house currently so I've heard that I shouldn't even try because there will not be anyone pulling for me within any of the houses and that only about 50% of the girls who sign up end up in a house. I think I would really like the experience of living in a house and participating in all the activities offered, being a sister and having an environment that will help keep me on track academically. But I don't want to go through rush, end up without a bid and then have to scramble to find housing for sophmore year. Is it really that tough to get in?</p>
<p>The first thing every girl I’ve ever known has told me about rush at IU is that it was not what they thought it would be. Yes 50% get placed in a house and 50%. This is true. However your own merits matter more than any “connections” you have. I’ve seen legacy’s get dropped in the first round and I’ve seen people with no connections get bids from all three final houses. What matters most is you and how you fit with the group of girls in the house already. Worst case scenario is that you don’t get into a sorority, but meet a good group of girls who didn’t either and now have a group of girls to get an apartment or house with. People always think you need to sign up early for off campus housing. You don’t. There is plenty of cheap off campus housing year round. Go for the Greek life and if you don’t like it you’ll find a group of girls like you and still be able to have a good stable environment and have close friends.</p>
<p>I am a male alum from the late 80’s and a product of the fraternity system. It was one of the greatest experiences I had there. Right up there with beating both Michigan and Ohio State in football as well as winning the NCAA basketball title my senior year. Rush can be hard for the girls, but don’t worry too much about being a legacy. Just do your best and smile. There will be a house for you. Don’t get caught up in the rankings or what some people think are the best houses. It is where you will feel most comfortable. If you don’t get in a particular house, you will still find plenty of great things to do and can get involved in a number of great clubs and sports. Plus the year after you graduate, no one cares if you were in a house or not.</p>