To Be Or Not To Be...Greek
Drake Students Weigh Advantages, Disadvantages of Greek Systems
Des Moines, Iowa (Jan. 31, 1997)-- Greek life encourages entering freshmen to "be a part of it" at Drake University. Is it right for everyone?
From the second week of the first semester, Greek life invades the freshmen atmosphere, offering to those interested an outlet for social engagement.
"I went through rush not sure if I was going to join a house," Kevin Fasana (JO1) said. "I saw through a lot and was able to see what it's really about. And from the house I chose, I saw a lot of things that I knew I could be a part of and, more importantly, wanted to be a part of."
However, being a part of the Greek system did not fit the needs of freshman Elliot Segal (BN1). "I didn't believe that it was right for me. Most people I hang out with are not Greek, but I seem to like the Greek system because I don't believe they will overlook you if you're not Greek," Segal said.
For others, stereotypes derived from such productions as Animal House or Saturday Night Live lived up to a reality for new Drake students.
Freshman Kristan Shawgo (AS1) said, "I'm not Greek because I'm too independent. An advantage to being non-Greek is that I can dress how I want to dress."
Though having the freedom to choose attire is important to Shawgo, she also said she feels there are advantages to "being a part of it."
"The majority of campus seems to be Greek, and they're the ones having the parties. Almost all of my friends are in the Greek system, and I do tend to feel left out," she said.
At Drake, students have an opportunity to go through Fall or Spring Rush and join the system during first or second semester. For freshman Christy Chase (AS1), this is a definite advantage for her socially.
"I feel rush should be in the Spring because then you have your group of friends and it would be different from Fall rush. Then, you're joining a house for where you feel comfortable and not just for one person in the house," Chase said.
Freshman Darby Clagett (JO1) has other concerns with the Greek system on Drake's campus. "The activities are great, but the extra time it takes can be a disadvantage. I like the Greek system, but then I don't," she said.
"On most other campuses, they have it where Greek life isn't associated with the college. Here it is, and they can control things like which sophomores can be released to live in the houses," Clagett said.
© 1997 CyberPress Communications, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, Drake University 50311.
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