Hardly drink.. should I even bother?

[excelblue]

Originally Posted by hornqvist27

First of all, I just want to say that I know absolutely nothing about the recruitment process of Fraternities. However, I’m extremely interested in joining a frat at my school.

Glad you're interested. It differs depending on the school, but for most campuses, it's basically up to the individual fraternities to do recruitment. I heavily suggest consulting with your school's Greek Life Office for more information.

The usual case is that you meet people from the chapters you're interested in, and if they think you're a good fit, they will offer you a bid, or a formal invitation to join.

Also, please be aware that there are people who may find "frat" to be offensive. It's advised that you say the full word: fraternity.

Originally Posted by hornqvist27

The problem here is that I hardly drink, and I’ve been drunk once and I hated it. I’m interested in joining a frat because of things far beyond partying and drinking, because I see the long term benefits and bonds that are formed. I go to parties, I have fun, and my best friend from high school was a borderline alcoholic lol. Its nothing that I haven’t seen before, and I actually enjoy being around it. But as for consuming, its just not for me. (I do drink casually, but not enough to become intoxicated)

I actually don't drink either. To be completely honest, there are some chapters that only drink and party (those don't stay around long), but there are at least as many that are about the friendships/bonds and live up to their values. If you join one of those (which I recommend), they will respect your desire to not drink.

Originally Posted by hornqvist27

Also, I’m a sophomore. I read somewhere that could hurt? Not sure why. But my grades are solid. Basically I’ve realized after about a year of school that I’m not happy with the routine I’ve settled into and the people I’m surrounded by. I have no problem meeting people, but the friends I’ve made just aren’t like me. I like sports, I like to play basketball, I like girls. Most ‘GDIs’ are just.... well.... nerdy, and not like me. Odds are if you’re reading this, you’re in a frat/surrority and you completely love it (I’ve never heard of anyone regretting joining). Imagine living in a new city feeling completely out of place. And if I just say ‘screw it’ and start drinking heavily, I’ll feel like I’ve lost a bit of my individuality which I value highly.

If you're truly a good fit for a chapter, why wouldn't they give you a bid? Chapters often desire younger people because they can be a contributing member for a longer period of time, but sophomores are no issue. Don't worry about it.

Joining a fraternity is not about losing your individuality; it's about forming a brotherhood with people who share the same values as you.

Originally Posted by hornqvist27

So basically, I just want to know more about recruitment. The main frat around here looks like Alpha Tau Omega. Although there’s a loooot more (University of Tennessee). If I stick to my guns, will that automatically kill my chances? Or should I just not bother, and continue to hate my friends? ha

Be brutally honest. If you need more information for some reason, ask. And if you read all of this, I appreciate you.

I suggest that you check out all the chapters that you think you may be interested in. Even if you don't get bids from them, you will likely still end up with new friends.

Good luck!