[adpiucf]

A sorority is a financial obligation, and I commend you for recognizing this right off the bat. It is very doable if you are on financial aid. I paid for college myself without family assistance, and I lived in the house, held chapter offices, and was on the Dean's List every semester. While I would have loved it if I hadn't had to have a part-time job through school, I enjoyed my undergrad experience immensely and was very happy to join a sorority!

For now, the university's Office of Greek Life/Office of Student Activities can provide information about dues to you. During recruitment, be sure to ask questions at the sorority events. There will be a round of parties where the sororities will specifically tell you about dues and costs, so wait to ask questions about dues until the sorority brings it up to you. Call home with this information after those parties and discuss it with your parents.

The first semester is typically the most expensive. There is a one-time new member fee and the purchase of your sorority badge. Most sororities will require you to make an initial payment 24-48 hours after bid day. Be prepared for this initial cost. While you can pay all of your dues for the semester up front, more typically, members pay monthly.

Moving into the house is almost always cheaper than living in the dorms or an off-campus residence. Almost all sorority houses come equipped with a meal plan, so you save even more time and money not having to buy or prepare food (or clean up!). Living in the house is also a great experience to get to know your chapter sisters better and to get involved. It's also very safe-- many sorority houses have security systems, and they all have house mothers who plan meals and manage the house maintenance.

Some sororities may have a required meal plan for live-out members. Don't freak if you see the price tag on their dues-- it may break down to where you are spending $5/day on food, even though dues may seem to be quite costly. Think about the big picture costs. If you aren't the type who is into the meal plan idea, you may not want to consider that sorority. If you really can't afford it, you may not want to consider that sorority. On the other hand, if you have really clicked with a chapter during recruitment, think about the big picture-- and how sharing meals with your sisters can be a great way to save money and to bond with your chapter.

Sororities that have chapter houses tend to have more expensive due than sororities that do not have a chapter house. Again, don't let this stop you from joining the organization where you feel you fit best. Consider all of the pros and cons carefully.

Best of luck with recruitment!