So there are some things I like and dislike about frats. Personally, I love the philanthropy idea behind a frat and getting to do lots of things for a charity. However, I do not know if UMass frats have a reputation for hazing or drinking. I personally don’t think I will be drinking whatsoever and won’t be going to many parties, but it’d be nice to help out the community. Anything I should know about frats at UMass, and should I join one if I’m not into drinking and partying?
Hazing is technically illegal under MA law, but most people know that it usually still happens during initiation. It’s normally smaller social things like screaming something stupid in the middle of a big lecture hall, blasting porn or girl moans in the library (only have seen that happen once in my 3 years here), or running around SW or something in your underwear (the last one is a frat thing, not sorority). The real hazing from back in the olden days where it would be something physically dangerous isn’t around anymore to my knowledge.
If you like the idea of philanthropy without all the extras that usually come with greek life, I would just recommend joining a [url = <a href=“Leadership, Activism & Community Service | Student Life | UMass Amherst”>Leadership, Activism & Community Service | Student Life | UMass Amherst</a>] community-service based RSO or something.
Also, you aren’t required to party or drink in most frats, although the peer pressure is there for some of them.