Hey Mikey,
You ask alot of really great questions. First of all let me say it is great that you are interested in joining a fraternity. It's also refreshing to hear that you can already get past many of the untrue stereotypes that exist about the greek system.
Joining a national fraternity has it's advantages over a local frat in many respects. First, there are many many more brothers with whom you can network when you join a national. Also, there is vast support from the national headquarters when it comes to finances, housing, leadership training, proper risk management, and more universal recognition.
Joining a frat is a really amazing experience. It has changed my life forever. A big part of joining a frat is rushing. During rush you get the opportunity to learn all about the houses and the guys who make up their membership. It is a really great time to learn about the focus of the house, it's yearly activities, and most importantly the cost and requirements of membership. This is the best time to ask questions. Fraternities, along with being social organizations, are business and thus they will "sell" themselves to you. They will only tell you specifics if you ask (i.e. costs and such).
Before and during rush the best advice I can give you is to be yourself. There is nothing to prepare for. The rush process seeks to match you up with the house that is right for you, and the only way this is effective is if you act just as you normally would. You might want to remember that you might not fit in at the house that all of your friends do, but that this is ok. First and foremost, just be yourself.
Joining a frat has many great advantages. As a member you get the benefits of a positive social experience, brotherhood, and extensive leadership and networking opportunities. These are things that should be explained to you during rush.
The financial aspect of joining a fraternity is one that should not be underemphasised. When you join, you agree to paying your dues fully and promptly. In my chapter I only pay $340 a semester, but this varies greatly from chapter to chapter and fraternity to fraternity. Be sure you ask up front about all costs. Also check to see whether your dues include such items as tickets to formal, t-shirts, party favors, and other associated costs. You also shouldn't let the cost necessarily deter you from joining. Many frats have payment plans which can spread out your dues and make them more affordable.
I would encourage you just to ask as many questions as possible during your rush experience. Also, if you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me with any questions you may have. I hope this has helped.
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wittcollegeguy@hotmail.com
[This message has been edited by WittenbergLCA18 (edited April 09, 2001).]
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