Oh, and I posted
my rush story as well - but it is even older than DBB's so read it just for what it's worth - the entertainment value.
As for negative stereotypes being a factor for you - unless things have changed dramatically at UIUC, the greeks there have a very positive image on campus. Of course there are plenty of GDIs who hate how dominant greek life is, but trust me it is way more difficult to NOT be greek there. I cannot tell you how many people I knew at UIUC who felt left out of a lot of campus life because of the negative image associated with NOT being greek (the networking available through greek life seemed to be important in getting involved in some non-greek activities). Greek life is WAY big there! Plus, it is the absolute most incredible greek system in the country, not to mention the largest, and to be able to be a part of it is such a great opportunity. I would certainly encourage most UIUC students to give it a try.