46 in college
 

I am 46 and presently enrolled in school. I am very excited about this chapter in my life. I always had a desire to join a frat if ever I returned to school, my question is seeking to join a frat at 46 okay.

I've seen it happen. It's unlikely, though, considering you'll be around people that are literally half your age and who have less life experience.

ETA: I should add -- it also depends on the type of organization you're pursuing.

If I were you, I definitely wouldn't get my hopes up.. depending on the organization, of course. Still...

I say go for it, but consider this. Do you really think you have anything in common wit ha bunch of 19-21 year olds? Also if you pledge, you would essentially become their student and have to learn what they want. And maybe you need to ask yourself exactly why you want to be part of the fraternity life.

Seriously, why on earth does a 46 year old want to hang around with a bunch of 18-22 year olds? And why would they want to hang around you?

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0wRJjXvyZ1.../s400/blue.jpg

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

You know what, I started giving advice, but I think this is ridiculous.

Really, this.

And the school.

I know of one campus where if you're over 21 or took any time off before college, you can forget about pledging Alpha.

Across town, same city -- men in their forties definitely made it and are active in alumni chapters to this day.

Depends on the school and area, but in general, your chances are slim to none. Even at my university, in the Northeast and with a small Greek system, you most likely would not get a bid. You shouldn't get your hopes up about it.

I think a service Fraternity may fit what you are looking for nicely. I believe the social Fraternities are probably out of the question. I am 51 and really feel that other than in an alumni advisory position with my Fraternity I would be way too old.

If you're joining for "brotherhood" and all that stuff - great.

But maybe steer clear of sorority mixers, because glomming on to women who are way way younger than you is rather creepy and disturbing (unless you're Hugh Hefner, of course -- and even then, it's still pretty creepy).

I know of a case where a guy joined a Latino fraternity at age 50. Unfortunately, he went inactive shortly after he was initiated.

My alma mater has a co-ed fraternity for non-traditional aged students. Maybe you can look into/start a chapter like that.

...yeah.

I would say go for it. Non-traditional age students definitely offer a unique perspective to the table. Obviously there will be some challenges regarding your priorities in this stage of your life as well as the socialization aspect.

It definitely can be a challenge, but if you really want to join a Fraternity (not a frat) built on lifelong brotherhood, service, scholarship etc, age really shouldn't be an issue. Just be sure to prepare yourself if you're extended a bid that while you can provide knowledge based on years of experience, the chapter members can offer you a light perspective. Additionally, be sure to let the younger members to grow and make mistakes - its part of the growth process.

Hopes this helps!

Without knowing where, I'd go with my alma matter . . . you'll have slim to none chance of getting a bid from the top fraternities.

do what you feel is comfortable to you. being part of a brotherhood can be a great asset. good luck.