Boise State University Greek Life: A Comprehensive Guide

Greek life at Boise State University is a vibrant and diverse community, offering a wide range of experiences and opportunities for its members. With over 20 active chapters, the Greek community plays a significant role in shaping the social, academic, and leadership landscape of the university.

History and Growth

The first Greek organization at Boise State was established in 1965, and the Greek community has grown steadily since then. According to the National Interfraternity Council (NIC), Boise State is among the top 10 universities in the nation for fraternity membership. In 2022, over 1,400 students were affiliated with Greek organizations, representing approximately 15% of the total student body.

Types of Organizations

Boise State’s Greek community encompasses fraternities, sororities, and coeducational organizations. Each organization has its unique history, mission, and values.

Fraternities:

• Alpha Gamma Rho
• Alpha Kappa Lambda
• Alpha Phi Alpha
• Beta Theta Pi
• Delta Chi
• Delta Sigma Phi
• Farmhouse
• Kappa Alpha Order
• Phi Delta Theta
• Phi Kappa Tau
• Pi Kappa Alpha
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon
• Sigma Nu
• Sigma Phi Epsilon
• Sigma Pi
• Tau Kappa Epsilon
• Theta Chi

Sororities:

• Alpha Chi Omega
• Alpha Gamma Delta
• Alpha Kappa Alpha
• Alpha Phi
• Alpha Xi Delta
• Chi Omega
• Delta Delta Delta
• Delta Phi Epsilon
• Delta Sigma Theta
• Kappa Alpha Theta
• Kappa Kappa Gamma
• Kappa Kappa Psi
• Phi Mu
• Pi Beta Phi
• Sigma Kappa
• Tau Beta Sigma

Coeducational Organizations:

• Alpha Kappa Psi (business)
• Lambda Pi Eta (communication)
• Phi Beta Lambda (business)
• Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia (music)
• Pi Sigma Alpha (political science)
• Sigma Alpha Iota (music)
• Tau Beta Pi (engineering)

Benefits of Greek Life

Joining a Greek organization offers numerous benefits for students:

• Leadership Development: Greek organizations provide opportunities for students to develop strong leadership skills through various roles and responsibilities within their chapters.
• Academic Support: Many Greek organizations have academic support programs, study groups, and mentorship initiatives to help their members achieve academic success.
• Social Connections: Greek life creates a strong sense of community and provides opportunities for students to connect with peers who share similar values and interests.
• Personal Growth: Involvement in Greek life challenges students to step outside of their comfort zones, develop self-confidence, and explore new perspectives.
• Networking Opportunities: Greek organizations provide opportunities for students to network with alumni, professionals, and other leaders in their fields of study.

Tips and Tricks

For students considering joining Greek life, here are a few tips:

• Research Different Organizations: Attend informational events, speak with current members, and explore the websites of different organizations to find one that aligns with your interests and values.
• Consider Your Values: Find an organization that is committed to the principles that are important to you, such as scholarship, service, or leadership.
• Network with Members: Get to know current members of the organizations you are considering to better understand their culture and expectations.
• Prepare for Rush: Rush is the process by which organizations recruit new members. Prepare by researching potential organizations, dressing professionally, and being yourself.
• Maintain a Positive Attitude: Greek life is about more than just partying. Focus on the benefits it has to offer, such as leadership development, community involvement, and personal growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing for the Wrong Reasons: Avoid joining a Greek organization solely for social status or party scene.
• Not Researching the Organization: Make sure you understand the history, mission, and values of the organization before joining.
• Failing to Take Responsibility: Greek life involves commitments to the organization and its members. Be prepared to fulfill your roles and obligations.
• Neglecting Academics: Balancing Greek life with academics is essential. Prioritize your studies and seek academic support when needed.
• Engaging in High-Risk Behavior: Alcohol consumption and other risky behaviors can jeopardize your safety and well-being. Be responsible and make wise choices.

FAQs

1. What are the costs associated with Greek life?

Membership fees and expenses vary depending on the organization. Typically, students pay annual dues, chapter fees, and social expenses.

2. Is Greek life required at Boise State?

Greek life is not required, but it is a popular and rewarding experience for many students.

3. What is Greek Week?

Greek Week is an annual event that celebrates Greek life at Boise State. It includes a variety of competitions, social events, and community service activities.

4. What is the Panhellenic Council?

The Panhellenic Council is the governing body for all sororities at Boise State. It provides support, resources, and guidance to its member organizations.

5. What is Interfraternity Council?

The Interfraternity Council is the governing body for all fraternities at Boise State. It provides support, resources, and guidance to its member organizations.

6. What is the National Pan-Hellenic Council?

The National Pan-Hellenic Council is the governing body for all historically Black fraternities and sororities at Boise State. It provides support, resources, and guidance to its member organizations.

7. What resources are available for students in Greek life?

Boise State provides a variety of resources for students in Greek life, including the Office of Greek Life, the Counseling Center, and the Academic Achievement Center.

8. How do I get involved in Greek life?

Contact the Office of Greek Life or the individual organizations to learn more about the recruitment process.

Tables

Table 1: Greek Organizations at Boise State University

Table 2: Greek Life Demographics

Table 3: Greek Life Benefits

Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid