Finances
 

How did you guys pay for your sorority? My parents don't really approve of greek life, at least not now. :( I've still got a while to convince them, and I figure if I just keep mentioning it they'll get used to the idea. But anyway, I might need to have a backup plan, like getting a job and paying for it myself, so how did you guys afford it? And in CA schools, public or private, does the cost vary a lot between schools or can someone give me an estimate? Thanks so much everyone!

I know that some Panhellenics make sure that the sororities let the PNMs know what the costs are. Like at a Rec. party, a sorority may have the costs on a bulletin board.

Is it possible for you to check with your school's Pan. office and ask (at least approximate) costs? Some org.'s costs may be secret, although I'm not sure why. Also, I've heard that some some schools and/or orgs. have payment plans.

Good luck to you!

Where are you rushing? It really depends on the campus, and sometimes even chapter to chapter. My chapter happens to be the least expensive on campus (though not why I chose it). It actually costs less to live in the chapter house and pay all my social bills than it cost me to live in the dorms. You may be hit with a bunch of new member fees all at once, but things usually taper off after your first semester.

If you really want it, there's a way. I have friends and sisters who work extra jobs to make their dues/fees, but things usually work out if they are fated to be.

Just a heads-up on the payment plans--many groups do not allow new members to do a formal payment plan.

There is always a way.

At my school, sororities were required, during rush, to distribute a sheet of paper outlining chapter dues and new member fees. That way, everyone knew the financial obligations up front.

My sorority did allow new members as well as sisters to finance their dues. Generally, you would have to pay your initiation fee and buy your badge some time before initiation, but you could spread out your chapter dues over the semester. Check with the treasurer.

My parents didn't approve of my joining a sorority either, but I worked a part-time campus job, and from that I paid my own dues, and that was fine with them.

My advice is that if you really want to go Greek, you can find a way without your parents cash. I know my parents didn't get the whole greek life thing, so I got a job on campus and paid my dues. If you really want to do it, I advise to get a summer job and save up enough money for initiation and your pin before you even rush. Then from there, most groups have payment plans. Check out your greek life office for more info.

wow
 

Gosh, thanks everyone! You really inspired me!! It's nice to know that not EVERYONE was just handed several thousand by their parents (not that there's anything wrong with that for you lucky girls!) and I agree, when there's a will there certainly is a way!

It's worth it!!!
 

I knew so many people in my house and others who worked to make the payments. I tell you, Greek life is worth every penny. It is something that you will cherish for the rest of your life. The benefits as an alumnae are tremendous--the connections, the social life, the leadership opportunities.

I was blessed to have my parents pay for my Greek experience, but if I had to, I would have taken a job to pay for it. IT IS SO worth it!

Best of luck to you. Who knows, maybe your folks will come around! ;)

Greek Love,
Jen