Take a semester off?

[SoCalGreekChick]

When I rushed my chapter, we had a "policy" that members could take a semester off. I'm pretty sure this started because of members that would study abroad for a semester. It had been extended to people who needed to take a semester off for financial reasons. Girls who take semesters off do not have to attend anything, and are not supposed to attend functions that are paid for by chapter dues.

Taking a financial leave of absence, I believe, is different from talking to the financial officer and getting your dues adjusted. I know some girls only pay national dues and then pay extra if they want to attend any events funded by our chapter. They are still 'in the house' and are required to attend mandatory things.

Now, in this economy, our chapter has decided NOT to allow members to take a financial leave of absence. They have two options, pay dues or sign your resignation papers. It is my understanding, although I very well could be incorrect, that they are no longer adjusting dues for financial hardship either. For members already on financial plans, things will stay as-is, but no new people can be added.

Does anyone else have this issue? It makes sense to me that a chapter would rather let girls take a semester off and then return to the house and pay dues, versus dropping and being gone for good and not having the option of coming back. I know a lot of sisters (including myself) that are going to have to drop because they can no longer afford the sisterhood. It's not that our house isnt a priority or isnt important, we just cant do it anymore.

Does anyone know if this would be considered a chapter policy, or something sent down from nationals?