[SuperblySigma]

Bi-annual means once every two years.
Semi-annual means once every half-year, or twice per year (like the semi-annual sales!)

That said, good luck with your recruitment! I went through formal recruitment in the fall ('05), and at my particular school, that was probably the best decision. We ALWAYS are able to take women in the fall, but whether or not we take girls in the spring is pretty variable. Open spots depend on things like girls graduating early (and, as unfortunate as it is, sometimes women do leave the sorority.) You know? <i>At my particular school.</i>

Everyone else is right, however, that that sort of thing is different at each school, and you might want to research your school specifically to see how it works. Do you know any girls who went Greek at the college you're planning to attend?

As for your dad's concerns, it depends highly on how good you are at managing your time. I feel like I got the whole experience, even as a first semester pledge, but I busted ass to do it... sleep was not really a priority!

Again, good luck!