Is going greek worth it?

[TSteven]

Is going greek worth it?
By Ryan Wood
Wildcat Weekly
(Not affiliated with The University of Kentucky)

No one will argue that one of the major reasons people decide to rush fraternities and sororities are the parties associated with both. No doubt these social functions are fun, but are there any other advantages to going greek at UK?

“Yes, definitely,” said Ashley Reynolds, a ’00 graduate with a degree in political science. “At job interviews [and] throughout law school everyone wanted to know my [sorority] experiences, whether they were greek or not.” Reynolds pledged Kappa Alpha Theta in ’96 and stayed active in the sorority, becoming president her junior and senior years.

Reynolds also had advice for those who may still be skeptical. “Even if you’re hesitant, give it a shot…I was unsure at first but it is a great way to meet people. [Being] greek gets you involved and introduces you to people you might not meet otherwise.”

Plus, you never know who will make it big from your sorority or fraternity after graduation and then a nice recommendation letter is one phone call away. Ashley now lives in Santa Monica and works in L.A. for a law firm specializing in Business Litigation. She still keeps in touch with many of her sorority sisters and occasionally visits the Theta alumni group in her area.

Kevin Joynt, who graduated in ’98 with a degree in accounting, agrees with Reynolds. “[Going Greek] is absolutely a plus. I encourage everyone [to join], not just for personal development but for career development.” Joynt is currently a CPA for Deloitte & Tonche professional services firm in Louisville. He pledged Alpha Tau Omega and was treasurer, in charge of PR and president during his stay at UK.

“The interpersonal skills you learn, the number of people you’ll meet locally and nationally have incredible potential in [any] business,” Joynt sad. “It’s never too late to get involved… I learned leadership skills I use today because I went Greek.”

Laura Hibbard, who is currently Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at UK, also recommends Greek life to students. “I enjoyed my experiences a lot. I met some of my best friends while I was in my sorority.”

However, Hibbard does recommend not letting it become your only reason to live. “I enjoyed it, but you have to keep a balance. [You] should maintain your interests inside and outside of your sorority/fraternity.”

Hibbard is a Kappa Alpha Theta alumnus who graduated from UK in ’93.

“Even if the Greek system isn’t for you, join some organization. Get involved at UK… it will only help you to build a good network,” she said.

This article was originally posted on February 24, 2005