[violetpretty]

Every org has different policies as far as class standing is concerned. In Sigma Kappa, you are "bound" to be a collegiate member (or withdraw--no early alum status) through your eighth semester of school, or until graduation, whichever comes first, no matter when you join. If you acquire 120 credits before beginning your eigth semester but don't graduate early, which I'm sure is common since many students come to college with AP credits, you're still a normal collegiate member, and the 8th semester or graduation rules apply. If you are in school for a 9th semester or beyond, Sigma Kappa members have the option to go early alum or remain active.

I know other orgs force members to take alum status if they continue to work on their first Bachelors' degree into their 5th year. Is this based on credits or number of semesters in school? If other orgs base their membership solely on credits, I think some GCers would have heard about instances were members were forced into alum status before beginning their 8th semester if they had 120 credits (but not graduating).

Bottom line for the OP: be honest and give as much information about your situation as possible. I'd ask someone from the AU Greek Life Office, as they will be able to give you the most campus-specific information.

Also, what kddani said. Try fall recruitment. Open your heart to the chapters that are doing fall and if you REALLY can't see yourself in either, try in the spring. Realize that the chapters who do fall recruitment are often the ones that are more likely to take juniors in the spring. If you like a chapter in the fall, and they offer you a bid, I personally think it would be foolish for a junior to not accept on the grounds that you want to explore the rest of your options. You might not have any options in the spring. Your choices only get fewer the longer you wait. Also, don't let anyone in a chapter who is not participating in the fall promise you a bid for the spring. No individual can guarantee you a bid.