I agree with much that has been typed.
I want to add that I do and always have found it funny that professional organizations try to carry on like NPHC orgs (I am not including service orgs like APO in this, although it is interesting how that also varies by campus). I was in Phi Alpha Delta in college but never knew it was supposed to be something so heartfilled and important until I saw other schools having lines and stuff. Reppin' it HARD like "Phi Alpha Delta 'til the day I diiiiiiie" type stuff. But at some schools, the band is a frat with a crossing ceremony and "line names." LOL.
You might need to distinguish between your professional goals and your organizational goals. You also need to know what "lifetime commitment" means to you. What happens if you change your career goals (like I did, which is why I stopped being active in Phi Alpha Delta my senior year--still have my pin and probably my decorative paddle--college memories I guess)? Are you no longer wearing your business fraternity 'nalia and reppin' it to the fullest?
You won't be clowned if you aren't clownable. If you pursue an NPHC org just don't walk around like you've had the "NPHC experience" because you're in a business frat that cared enough to have line jackets and stuff. That business frat doesn't really mean anything as far as many NPHCers are concerned. Don't disown your business frat associations or respect for your business frat, though, just understand the different levels.
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