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Initiation/Drinking

Hi!

I'm going to be rushing this fall at uc berkeley, and I was just wondering if there are any fellow npms out there? also, i'm a little confused about the pledge process...what happens during initiation? is there usually a lot of hazing..? another thing..i don't like to drink...will i be forced to?

anyone can answer the latter of the questions because they are pretty general, i'm just looking for some insight.

thanks

Quote:

Originally Posted by prettyinpink91 (Post 1833920)

1)The new member period is a time when your chapter gets to know you better, you in turn are getting to know the chapter members better and learn about your organization. Hazing is not allowed. If you feel you are being hazed at any time (as a new member or initiated member) you need to report it. Often times this can be done anonymously through both greek life on your campus and your organization.
2)Initiation is a beautiful, sentimental ceremony that should not include foolishness.
3)If you dont like/want to drink, then dont drink. Some greeks drink, some greeks dont, with every variation in between. You should not be forced to drink anything (alcohol or otherwise), as that would be considered hazing.

As far as hazing goes, your greek life office should have their own definition of hazing on file. Dont be afraid to ask to see it if you have concerns.

Hope this helps.

Quote:

Originally Posted by prettyinpink91 (Post 1833920)

The new member period involves learning about the sorority, getting to know your sisters and other new members, participating in events, going to meetings, etc. The actvities will vary by chapter.

If you become a new member of a Panhellenic sorority, there should be nothing involved that is considered hazing, as it is against our national policies to participate in hazing activities.

Initiation is a ceremony held at the end of the new member period that symbolizes you becoming an active member. Each sorority has it's own ceremony and it is considered a secret. But generally, initiation is ceremonial and should not involve hazing in any way.

In terms of drinking, this is college. So yes, there will be parties and opportunities for that. If you choose to drink, fine, but typically no one is going to force you if it's not something you are comfortable with, as forcing you would be considered hazing. There are sorority members who for whatever reason, choose not to drink.

Quote:

Originally Posted by prettyinpink91 (Post 1833920)

No!

**In the voice of Mommy Dearest**

NO HAZING EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I’m not at Berkley, but I remember being worried about this before rushing as well. A girl I worked with at the time was in a sorority (I can't remember which one right now) and I really feel like I should quote what she told me. "Anyone who tries to make you do something you're uncomfortable with is NOT your sister." This applies to hazing, drinking, and anything else. And it’s so true.