Many schools say that recs aren't necessary, but you know what? Recs help you stand out, especially if you're at a very competitive school like you say.

Just because they're not mandatory does not mean you should not even bother with them.

My schools doesn't require recs. A lot don't "require" recs - they tell you not to worry about them, that it's the sororities' responsibility to hunt one up for you if they like you. Although your school might not require recs, your situation very well might.

I rushed at a Big 12 school a sophomore with a 2.77 and not a single recommendation.

I was cut by 11 out of 13 houses after the first round. Yeah, ouch.

Things did work out for me. I got a bid to a good sorority that took a HUGE chance on me. I became an appointed officer later that semester. I also got a 3.67 last semester and got my cumulative up to a respectable 3.2.

So it's possible to end up in a good house and even be a valuable member. But, with your stats, getting there will be tough.

If you rush, you will probably be cut heavily. You may or may not end up in a sorority.

If you don't rush, you will not be in a sorority. Period.

I don't think it's possible to say it any better than this. :)

Take home message: Recs matter because they can help you. And some NPC groups require them if you want to be seriously considered.

As someone who sits on more than one Alumnae Panhellenic Bd. and sees the results on the back end, I can assure you of that. At this point, if you are going to go through the process, I strongly suggest you find out what you need and then do everything possible to set yourself up for the best opportunities. No, recs aren't required. But if you have less than fab grades, and are not a freshman, you're going to have to put in a little more work and show what you can bring if it's not 3 years of collegiate membership or a boost to the chapter's overall gpa. And I'm sure you will get those grades up for your own sake, over time.

When you request recs, make sure you take the time to write a nice intro letter about yourself to the alums who will be helping you. I've dealt with girls who don't want to bother taking this step because they're busy at the pool or working at Abercrombie. Hmmm. Tells me how badly they want this.

Write up a nice resume about yourself for these alums, detailing your leadership experience, your commitment to the community, your talents and interests, and your job experience. As someone with 1 more year of maturity than the freshman, maybe you bring a lot more to the table--now you have to sell that.

Best of luck to you.