Boise State University Sororities: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Members

Introduction

Boise State University (BSU) is home to a vibrant Greek life community, with over 20 sororities and fraternities represented on campus. Joining a sorority can offer students a wealth of benefits, including academic support, social connections, leadership opportunities, and lifelong friendships. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Boise State University sorority system, from recruitment to membership and beyond.

Benefits of Joining a Sorority

• Academic Support: Sororities offer study sessions, tutoring, and academic advising, which can help members maintain high GPAs. According to the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), the average GPA for sorority members is 0.15 points higher than the all-female average.
• Social Connections: Sororities provide countless opportunities for members to socialize and make friends from diverse backgrounds. They host parties, formals, and other social events that foster a sense of community.
• Leadership Opportunities: Sorority members have the chance to take on leadership roles within their chapters and the broader BSU community. These experiences can develop valuable skills in delegation, communication, and decision-making.
• Lifelong Friendships: Sorority sisters often form close bonds that last a lifetime. They provide a network of support and encouragement, both during college and beyond.

Recruitment Process

BSU sororities participate in a formal recruitment process known as “Recruitment Week.” This week-long event takes place each fall and consists of a series of open houses and social events where potential members (PNMs) can meet sorority members and learn about each chapter’s values and culture.

To participate in Recruitment Week, PNMs must register online and meet certain eligibility requirements, such as good academic standing and a minimum GPA. During the week, PNMs will attend various events hosted by each sorority, including house tours, receptions, and informal gatherings.

At the end of Recruitment Week, PNMs will “preference” the sororities they are interested in joining. Sororities will then review PNM preferences and issue invitations to those they wish to extend bids to.

Selecting a Sorority

Choosing the right sorority for you is a personal decision that should be based on factors such as:

• Values and Culture: Identify sororities that align with your personal values and interests. Consider their traditions, philanthropy, and general atmosphere.
• Academic Support: Inquire about each sorority’s academic resources and track record of academic success.
• Social Activities: Evaluate the types of social events each sorority hosts and whether they match your preferences.
• Leadership Opportunities: Determine if sororities provide opportunities for leadership roles that you are interested in.
• Financial Commitment: Consider the financial costs associated with joining a sorority, including dues, event fees, and housing costs if applicable.

Membership and Expectations

Becoming a member of a sorority is a commitment that involves fulfilling certain expectations, such as:

• Maintaining Academic Standing: Sororities expect members to maintain a satisfactory GPA and adhere to university academic policies.
• Participating in Chapter Activities: Members are required to attend chapter meetings, participate in social events, and engage in philanthropic activities.
• Contributing to Chapter Finances: Members are responsible for paying dues and fees that support chapter operations.
• Adhering to Sorority Values: Members are expected to uphold the values and traditions of their sorority, both on and off campus.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing for the Wrong Reasons: Avoid joining a sorority solely for social status or popularity. It is important to find a sorority that is a good fit for your personality and values.
• Overcommitting: Balance your academic and social commitments wisely. It is possible to be involved in a sorority without sacrificing your academic performance.
• Ignoring Sorority Rules: Familiarize yourself with sorority rules and regulations and adhere to them. Breaking rules can have consequences.
• Being Cliquish: Sororities encourage inclusivity and respect for all members. Avoid forming exclusive or judgmental groups within the chapter.
• Not Seeking Help When Needed: If you are struggling academically, socially, or financially, reach out to your sorority sisters or advisors for support.

How to Join a Sorority at BSU

1. Register for Recruitment Week: Visit the Boise State University Greek Life website to register for Recruitment Week and learn more about the process.
2. Attend Open Houses and Events: Make an effort to attend as many open houses and social events as possible during Recruitment Week. This will give you a chance to meet sorority members and learn about their chapters.
3. Preference Sororities: After attending open houses and events, create a list of your preferred sororities in order of interest.
4. Receive Bids: Sororities will review PNM preferences and issue invitations (bids) to those they wish to extend membership to.
5. Accept a Bid: If you receive a bid from a sorority that you are interested in joining, you must accept it within a specified timeframe.
6. Initiation: New members undergo an initiation process before becoming full-fledged sorority sisters.

Five Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many sororities are there at Boise State University?
   There are over 20 sororities and fraternities represented on campus.
2. When is Recruitment Week?
   Recruitment Week typically takes place each fall.
3. What is the average GPA of sorority members at BSU?
   The average GPA for sorority members at BSU is 0.15 points higher than the all-female average.
4. Are sororities expensive to join?
   The financial commitment to joining a sorority varies, but expect to pay dues, event fees, and possibly housing costs.
5. What is the best way to find the right sorority for me?
   Attend open houses and events during Recruitment Week to meet sorority members and learn about each chapter’s values and culture.

Conclusion

Joining a sorority at Boise State University can be a transformative experience that offers a wide range of benefits, including academic support, social connections, leadership opportunities, and lifelong friendships. By understanding the recruitment process, selecting a sorority that fits your personality and values, and fulfilling the expectations of membership, you can make the most of your sorority experience and create lasting memories.

Appendix

Table 1: Boise State University Sororities

Table 2: Sorority Benefits

Table 3: Sorority Expectations

Table 4: Common Sorority Mistakes