<p>I'm didn't grow up in America, so I never really heard about Greek life before. But I see it alot on CC. What is it? It can't be a club for Greek people, since there aren't that many. Is it like a party club? and why do they give scholarships to people in their club? Wouldn't everyone join if thats the case?</p>
<p>They’re binge drinking clubs.</p>
<p>That is the popular opinion of them…they’re a little more than that. But in all honesty that’s all the opinion you’re probably going to get on CC.</p>
<p>They don’t give scholarships to everyone, just those who need it. Also you have to be invited, not everyone can join. People in a frat or sorority are usually very close. They often all live in one house. They do regular philanthropy and do charity work and plan things with other frats or sororities. Yes there is a lot of partying involved and that is what most non-Greeks see but it’s a lot more than that. If you go through the rush process at your school (which is committing to nothing) you’ll understand a lot more about what they really are.</p>
<p>Greek life refers to fraternities and sororities which are invitational social organizations. Usually, but not always, they offer housing as well which may or may not be officially on campus. Joining one may be easy or difficult - and there is usually a fairly clear process (often called rush).
Fraternities and sororities vary a lot. Some do focus on parties, some on charity work, some function as a ‘home away from home’. THere are often costs associated with belonging to one and housing costs may be higher than campus housing.
They offer scholarships for the same reasons that other organizations do - to help students. However, scholarships are not the primary focus.
Fraternities and sororities are very popular at some schools and non-existent at others.</p>
<p>I think a key thing to remember here is that any student-run organization is subject to the whims of students. I encourage folks to rush, but don’t join a fraternity/sorority at the expense of getting screwed over by dissolutes.</p>
<p>At their best, fraternities and sororities can provide a tightly knit community during college, lifelong friends, and long-term networking benefits. At their worst, they encourage too much partying and problematic behavior, to the detriment of academics and even health.</p>
<p>Greek organizations are neither all good nor all bad, so investigate the individual houses on your campus to determine their reputation.</p>