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You're probably right. I call it pledging, and not new member education, because they're not members, new or otherwise. I think we're somewhat similar, in that we obviously look for certain qualities already present in a pledge. However, pledging for my fraternity has two purposes, in my opinion. One, the pledges need to earn the respect required to be admitted into the fraternity. I don't want someone representing my organization who lacks the dedication or character we desire. Second, pledging provides us the opportunity to prepare the pledge for membership. We obviously make judgements during rush, but there is not enough time provided to determine whether he is a good fit for us. Also, we don't want to change the personality of the pledge, but a lot of eighteen year old kids need time to adjust to college life. This may include the way they dress, how they interact socially, how they manage their time and schoolwork, etc. What is acceptable, or popular, in high school is often not so in the more "adult" society that is southern greek life. Therefore, we need that period to evaluate the pledge, and help him along as he adjusts.
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