The University of Oklahoma boasts a vibrant Greek life community, offering students from all backgrounds the opportunity to connect, grow, and make lifelong memories. With over 60 fraternities and sororities to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this rich and diverse system.
History of Greek Life at OU
Greek life at OU has a long and storied history, dating back to the establishment of the first fraternity, Sigma Nu, in 1885. Since then, Greek organizations have played an integral role in campus life, fostering brotherhood and sisterhood among students and contributing to the overall university experience.
Benefits of Joining Greek Life
Joining a Greek organization offers numerous benefits, both personally and academically. Members enjoy:
- Strong social connections: Greek chapters provide a built-in network of friends and mentors, helping students adjust to college life and build lasting relationships.
- Leadership opportunities: Greek life offers a wealth of leadership roles, allowing students to develop their skills in communication, organization, and decision-making.
- Service and philanthropy: Greek organizations actively engage in community service and charitable events, fostering a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement among members.
- Academic support: Many Greek chapters offer study groups, tutoring, and other academic support services, helping members succeed in their classes.
How to Join Greek Life
Recruitment for Greek life takes place during the fall and spring semesters. Interested students can attend recruitment events, known as “rush,” to meet members of different organizations and learn about their values and traditions.
The rush process typically involves several rounds of interviews and activities. Students are encouraged to research different chapters and attend multiple rush events to find the best fit for their interests and goals.
Types of Greek Organizations at OU
The University of Oklahoma features a wide range of Greek organizations, catering to diverse interests and backgrounds. These include:
- Fraternities: Male-only organizations that emphasize brotherhood, leadership, and academic achievement.
- Sororities: Female-only organizations that promote sisterhood, service, and academic excellence.
- Coed fraternities: Organizations that welcome both male and female members, offering a more inclusive and diverse environment.
- Professional fraternities: Organizations tailored to specific academic disciplines, providing support and networking opportunities for students pursuing particular fields of study.
- Honor societies: Prestigious organizations that recognize high academic achievement and leadership qualities.
Greek Life Statistics
- Over 6,000 students participate in Greek life at OU, representing approximately 20% of the undergraduate population.
- There are over 60 Greek chapters on campus, including both national and local organizations.
- Over $1 million is raised annually by Greek organizations through philanthropic events and donations.
- Greek life members have a higher GPA and retention rate than non-members.
Notable Greek Alumni
The University of Oklahoma’s Greek life system has produced numerous notable alumni, including:
- Senator Ted Cruz (Phi Delta Theta): Republican Senator from Texas
- Congressman Tom Cole (Pi Kappa Alpha): Representative for Oklahoma’s 4th Congressional District
- Kelly Cruse (Chi Omega): CEO of Martellus Bennett Foundation
- Keenan Thompson (Omega Psi Phi): Actor and comedian known for his work on Saturday Night Live
- Carli Lloyd (Alpha Chi Omega): Olympic gold medalist in soccer
Tips for Success in Greek Life
To succeed in Greek life, students are encouraged to:
- Choose the right organization: Attend rush events and research different chapters to find the best fit for your values and interests.
- Get involved in chapter activities: Participate in social events, leadership roles, and community service projects to maximize your experience.
- Maintain academic excellence: Greek life organizations emphasize academic success, so prioritize your studies and seek support when needed.
- Foster lifelong connections: Build strong relationships with your fellow members and maintain contact with alumni to expand your professional network.
Conclusion
Greek life at the University of Oklahoma is a vibrant and rewarding experience that offers students opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, social connection, and academic support. With over 60 chapters to choose from, there is a Greek organization on campus to suit every interest and background. For those seeking to enhance their college experience and make lifelong memories, Greek life is a valuable option to consider.