Interest Question

[GinaD79]

I hope Greeks from all councils, as well as those independent of any council and any non-Greeks will share their opinions on this issue. When you were researching GLO's, or if you are doing this currently, what did you look for in an organization?

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

[zchi2]

Originally posted by GinaD79
I hope Greeks from all councils, as well as those independent of any council and any non-Greeks will share their opinions on this issue. When you were researching GLO's, or if you are doing this currently, what did you look for in an organization?

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

It's funny that you posted these questions because I was wondering the same thing. From the extensive growth of multicultural, latino, and asian sororities and fraternities, I really wondered what makes a person want to start chapters of sororities they never met before??? It seems like the sororities with the "cutest" colors or most technical websites grow at a faster rate than the other sororities. When you take away all of the fancy advertisments, most organizations are the same (same mission statement, same purpose, same goals).

I chose Zeta Sigma Chi because I got to know some of the members in the sorority. It wasn't because I loved peach so much, but it was because I loved what I saw them doing and trying to achieve. Their love for the organization and each other was strong and I wanted to be apart of that. It makes me sooooo upset when I hear someone saying that they joined XYZ because their colors were so cute (most people just won't admit that was their reason...) How could you make you decision on that? I saw all the things that I could do for my organization instead of what my organization could do for me...

[CardinalSM]

Originally posted by GinaD79
I hope Greeks from all councils, as well as those independent of any council and any non-Greeks will share their opinions on this issue. When you were researching GLO's, or if you are doing this currently, what did you look for in an organization?

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?
This didn't make much of a difference to me when I went through recruitment. When I started recruitment the only sororities I had heard of on my campus were Phi Mu and Chi O, but I kept an open mind about the other 2 even though i hadn't heard of them.

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?
If all the sororities hae about the same number and one is noticeably much lower than the others, I would wonder why and it might put doubts in my mind about that sorority. I don't know for sure if that would have made a difference since all the sororities were about the same size when I went through recruitment.

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?
This doesn't really matter to me. I don't think it is a big deal.

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?
The colors didn't really have an effect on me, except in the case of one sorority that came out of their house on the first night wearing identical dresses of the same color which I despise, it made me sick ot my stomach. I will have to admit that it was a strike against them during rush. (ETA: this is nothing against the sorority, some of my best friends are sisters of this GLO and I have a lot of respect for their organization and what it values!) I wasn't a good match for that sorority anyhow so it wasn't a big deal. On the other hand, the website mattered a lot to me. I looked at them a lot before I came to college to learn about the sororities, it kind of gave me an idea about other things that may not have come up during rush. I payed the most attention to the photo albums to see how sisters acted around each other. Once I was going through recruitment the website mattered less, but they were a big first impression.

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?
I chose Chi O, because I saw a place that could be my home away from home. I saw really genuine girls who didn't have a "recruitment front." I saw a place where I could increase my leadership abilities and find friends for life. I have never been disappointed by my sisters being different from the way they portrayed themselves during rush. I have never doubted my decision.

[honeychile]

Good questions! I'm going to answer these as I would have answered when I was going through recruitment, for the most part, as I think that's where you're going with this:

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer? When I started college, it was with the intent that I would transfer after my freshman year (I was 17). So, I would not have looked twice at a local, and was trying to keep to sororities that had a chapter at the schools to which I wanted to transfer.

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers? As a freshman, the big-to-middle chapters were more my style. There were 3 chapters who had less than 20 women in each, and I really didn't give them much of a chance.

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters? It would depend upon their campus reputation, or the women themselves. If they had made a good impression, I would give them a chance.

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level? Yes and no. I would be lying if I said that liking the colors of the sororities I put at the top of the list wasn't a factor, but there was one sorority whose colors I liked, but didn't rush (I still haven't figured that one out after all these years!). I think it was more knowing that I liked ABC & XYZ, and isn't it great that I also like their colors situation.

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you? When it came down to the two chapters I preffed, it was all about the sisterhood shown & the history dynamic. Both had a long and stellar history in the sorority arena, and were well known. Both had similar colors, gorgeous sisters, and a wonderful sisterhood. But as much as I wanted to please my family with my legacy chapter, I knew from the first day of rush (and reading their literature) that I wanted to be an Alpha Delta Pi.

[KillarneyRose]

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

One with more because to me part of the allure of a sorority is knowing you have sisters all over the place.


2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

More. Because size is most associated with strength.


3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

That's a tough one. I think not because I would wonder why they hadn't grown.


4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

When I rushed there was no Internet ( ), but if there had been I almost certainly would have been swayed by the quality of the website. I think that today that is a very important aspect which is why I wish my sorority had a website to compare to, for example, Tri Delta's or Delta Gammas.

As for colors, the fact that I like pink and green was just a pleasant bonus.


5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

The strength of my sorority on my campus is what made me choose to pledge there. I didn't know much about the national size/reputation back then. Now, as an alum, I'm happy to know that we have a strong alumnae network as well.

[MSUgreek]

Going through recruitment, I didnt put very much emphasis on colors, website, size, or any other general aspect. I feel that in chosing a sorority, you have to go with your heart and find the house that most fits your PERSONALITY.

[FSUZeta]

when i rushed there was no internet, so websites were not an option. however, if i were a pnm now, i would check out the websites to get to know a little about each chapter before going to the recruitment events. i probably would've formed impressions of each group before actually meeting them... i don't know if that would be good or bad. i hope that i would have been open minded enough to look beyond the website. as it was, i went through rush without any preconceived notions. my relatives and friends who were already at fsu were very gracious and didn't make any comments about any group. as for size of chapter, i must admit that i would have been a little leery of joining a small chapter. i was more interested in a medium or large chapter. as a rushee, i was more "in the moment" meeting each chapter and not too concerned about their national organization or how many chapters they had. i was more concerned with how i would fit in with the chapters on my campus. the physical house mattered. and i certainly wasn't concerned with alumnae groups!(although i have served as president of two different alumna chapters)
i don't remember caring about the sorority colors, crest or badge, but as it turned out, i like my sorority's the best-is it because i like my sorority, or because i like turquiose and grey, crowns and
strawberries? i don't really know! it is funny how things turn out.

[ZTAngel]

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

More chapters. I want to know that I have sisters wherever I go. If I happen to move, I want to be assured that I will be able to find an alum group to get involved with.

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

Large. I don't know if this question pertains to the organization as a whole or the local chapter. While rushing as a freshman, admittedly, I only wanted to join a house that had large numbers. At the time, the chapters with the largest numbers were the strongest. I didn't want to have to worry about struggling to bring up our numbers or reputation.

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

I would pick an organization that has more chapters over the length of existance.

Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

I looked at the local level websites. This was the late 90's so individual chapters didn't go out and get a web designer to do their website. Needless to say, none of the chapters on the UCF campus had impressive websites. So, I certainly didn't base my decision from this.

What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

My organization has a huge presence throughout Florida and the South. It was one of three sororities that I knew a lot about prior to rushing. I knew a few of the girls that went to my HS who had eventually joined Zeta. I was friendly with these girls and this sparked my interest for Zeta.

[GtownGirl98]

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

I didn't know much about my GLO before I joined. And didn't care about the numbers and such but looking back now, I'm glad to be apart of a large GLO with sisters all over the world. It never fails that where ever I go, I find a sister.

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

I don't care that Chi O can boost of having the most members, because quanity isn't what I go for. But I do like to see that AGD has life and is growing daily. I also am a Charter member of my chapter, so I would have to say that numbers didn't attract me.

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

No, age is great for tradition but I like having the balance of years with growth.

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

I don't think that most people set out to wear Red, Buff, and Green, but it grows on you. When I joined, my color of choice was blue, so no again. As to the website, I did look at the websites for the chapters on my campus and the GLOs that were looking to come to my school. I liked AGD's from the start, so yes.

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

I loved the Purpose, the newness, the alums I met, and the Flowers. Also I liked the Squirrel for personal reasons.

[HotDamnImAPhiMu]

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

I had no idea about the size of my org. nationally, or any of the rest on campus. I was interested in sororities on a chapter level ONLY. Of course, now that I'm on the other side that's NOT a mentality I'd suggest to a pnm....


2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

I rushed to meet girls, so I only considered the two largest orgs. on campus. I was a transfer student and quite honestly rushing was a last-minute decision.


3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

I already mentioned that I didn't do my research like I should have, so let me say something else: as far as age on campus... I could have seen joining a colony. I think even as a PNM I would have recognized the value in being a founding sister.


4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

I almost joined Sigma b/c I liked their colors better. So, yes.


5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

Size & quality of girls.

[Glitter650]

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

I didn't do much research before I went through on # of chapters nationally.... but I did look to see if they had chapters at certain schools... but I only had three to choose from anyway... so

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

I couldn't really compare the sizes of the chapters on campus when I went through... since I went through informal so I don't think it was really a factor for me... I think all of them were with in 10 members of each other at the point anyway .. so..

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

Thinking about it now I probably would just join the older one with fewer chapters... because it proves they have staying power...but I didn't think abou that when making my decision...


4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

Not directly but it did cross my mind that I didn't like a certain chapters' sweaters the first night... (which where letters in their colors on a grey background) But I almost ended up joining so... Website not too much... I only got a chance to look at the other two chapters website and not phi sigs... so I guess it coudln't have been that big a deal if I joined without checking it out.


5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

quality of girls, the general comfortable feeling I got hanging out with them.


__________________

[Kevin]

Originally posted by GinaD79
I hope Greeks from all councils, as well as those independent of any council and any non-Greeks will share their opinions on this issue. When you were researching GLO's, or if you are doing this currently, what did you look for in an organization?

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

Many of these were moot points because I joined a fledgling colony. I didn't really pay any attention to the number of chapters, the numbers, whatever. I was just excited about the fact that I could be a part of something that would make a lasting impact on my campus. A rare opportunity for anyone.

However, being on the other side of things, rushees join for different reasons. Certainly our great statewide and nationwide alum and chapter network have been a factor. I've never seen a guy give a damn what the colors are. I might be worried if he did.

I don't think folks really care about how long an organization has existed. Most are interested in what's in it for them now. Of course there are always exceptions.

[_Opi_]

Originally posted by GinaD79
I hope Greeks from all councils, as well as those independent of any council and any non-Greeks will share their opinions on this issue. When you were researching GLO's, or if you are doing this currently, what did you look for in an organization?

1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

Currently, I am a non-greek. I can see how the image or colors of an org can make people want to join an org..(i've seen it happen before)..and that's kind of sad. The problems I've had with joining an org so far has been the ideals of that orgs that I was interested in...yes, ideals differ in every organization...and also an org that fits with my background and values..that's most important..something that I can proudly represent..and so far, that org is not in my college...but we shall see

[GinaD79]

Thank you to everyone who responded! I appreciate your feedback.
GD79

[aephi alum]

Originally posted by GinaD79
1) Would you be more likely to show interest in an organization with more established chapters as opposed to one with fewer?

2) Would you show more interest in an organization with large numbers as opposed to one with small numbers?

3) Would you prefer to join an organization that has been around for longer but had few chapters?

4) Did the organization’s colors or website affect your interest level?

5) What was it about the organization that you chose that interested you?

Interesting thread...

I joined a newly founded local, so there's your answer. For me, it was more important to consider the sisters at my school, rather than the number of chapters/sisters nationwide (or lack thereof).

I'm glad, though, that we later became a chapter of AEPhi. I now have sisters everywhere, which is nice. I also ended up settling in the Northeast US, where AEPhi has a big presence.

I rushed before the Web came into widespread use, so nobody had a website. (I later built my chapter's first website.) I didn't care about the colors - it was the intangible qualities that were more important to me. (Although green and purple are pretty )

As for why I rushed and joined my local - when I first arrived at their first rush event, I immediately felt right at home, like these were the sisters I never knew I had. It's hard to describe...