Quote:
Originally posted by IotaNet
Actually -
I think Rainman had it right in his post. While the Undergrad to Grad retention rates are lower than any of us would like, I don't think that speaks to the concept of people pledging and organization vs. a chapter.
If you ask the average Graduate NPHC member about his affiliation, he/she will most likely say: "I am an XYZ (Iota/Alpha/etc.") He may then go on to say, "I pledged at XYZ chapter." Although the chapter affiliation is important, the prime identification is with the organization.
Regarding retention, 10% is not setting the world on fire but it's a pretty significant number. Sensuret - Think about your own Grad Chapter in DC. Although you probably initiate new members on a semi-regular basis, I'd bet that the majority of Mu Lambda's active membership is comprised of people who transitioned from the Undergraduate ranks.
Think of the words of your hymn ...
"College days do swiftly pass, imbued with mem'ries fond. And the recollection slowly fades away. Our renowned A Phi A, and dear Fraternal Bond, May they ever Abide with us and with us stay."
Or the Kappa hymn ...
When all our student days are gone, and from school we must go, Still we will honor, love and sing, They praises o'er and 'oer.
Obviously, I am not an Alpha or a Kappa  but to me, that is a "built-in reminder" that one is expected to move on to the next level in the Fraternity -- and place the Fraternal affliation first.
Just my thoughts ...
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co sign, i think most brothers who are members of graduate chapters were made as undergraduates. people are very fanatic about their undergraduate chapters because that is the primary fraternal contact they have had. as a brother who was made as a graduate student, i still have a strong connection with the undergraduates and graduate students who had a part in making me. does that mean i'm going to forgo all affiliation in the grad chapter? no, but the undergrad connection is still very strong. i "intook" Iota, to wear these beautiful colors, to wear these beautiful letters, to know the sacred knowledge of my Shield, and to uphold the sacred principles. many people who get initiated through a grad chapter already have their life in order, therefore have the time to be active in their chapter. that's why you see a lot of older heads who were not inititated as grads, but were made as undergrads. they already have the time to put forth the effort. a lot of the younger members fresh out of school are still trying to secure themselves before they put the time and effort needed. of course, there are many who don't meet that.