[dzandiloo]

Every once in a while, we hear about fraternities bidding non-trad students...it usually works out pretty well for them, but so goes the fact that sororities and fraternities are different animals when it comes to recruitment.

What's been said above is all good info. Bottom line, you shouldn't recruit someone who simply isn't a good fit.

Bearing that in mind, here' s a related story:
Several years ago, a woman in her 40's went through formal recruitment at my alma mater. She was a returning student, I can't remember if she was just finishing up what little she lacked from her first time in college b/f she had kids, or if she was getting a second degree. Anyway, everyone ADORED her, and she very clearly loved DZ. She was invited to Pref, but did not match before we filled quota...I'm sure there were reservations on the chapter's part to having someone who was their mother's age in their pledge class, but they still loved her.

We extended an invitation to her to join by AI-and it worked out great b/c she was a non-traditional student who probably would not have enjoyed some of the activities geared to the younger/traditional students, but since she was a permanent resident of the community, we knew she would be able to contribute alot to the organization by just being there. She was able to attend New Member meetings (her choice, but not required), learn all the history & was initiated at the same time as the new member class. She is still an active alum in the community, from what I hear.

Let the lady finish recruitment, and let the cards fall where they may. If she does not receive a bid, but is interested in pursuing AI eventually, she can seek it out like anyone else who meets the specific guidelines of the organizations.