Georgia Southern University is home to a thriving and diverse Greek life community, with over 40 chapters representing a wide range of fraternities and sororities. These organizations provide students with opportunities for leadership development, community service, academic excellence, and lifelong friendships.
Benefits of Greek Life at Georgia Southern
Participating in Greek life at Georgia Southern offers numerous benefits to students, including:
- Leadership Development: Greek life provides students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills through various roles within their chapters and the broader community.
- Academic Support: Many Greek chapters offer tutoring, mentorship, and study sessions to support their members’ academic success.
- Community Service: Greek organizations are actively involved in a wide range of community service projects, giving students the chance to make a positive impact on the local community.
- Social Opportunities: Greek life provides students with a social network of peers who share similar values and interests. This can help students feel connected and supported during their time at Georgia Southern.
- Lifelong Connections: The friendships and connections made through Greek life can last a lifetime, providing alumni with a valuable network of support and professional contacts.
Types of Greek Organizations at Georgia Southern
Georgia Southern’s Greek life community consists of a variety of fraternities and sororities, including:
- Fraternities: Georgia Southern recognizes 18 fraternities, representing both social and service-oriented organizations.
- Sororities: The university has 11 sororities, each with its own unique values and mission.
- Multicultural Greek Council: This organization represents the culturally-based fraternities and sororities on campus.
Choosing a Greek Chapter
Finding the right Greek chapter is an important decision. Students should consider their values, interests, and goals when choosing a chapter. Here are some factors to consider:
- Values and Mission: Each Greek chapter has its own set of values and mission. Potential members should research these to ensure they align with their own beliefs.
- Leadership Opportunities: Some chapters offer more leadership opportunities than others. Students who are interested in developing their leadership skills should consider these chapters.
- Social Activities: Greek chapters offer a variety of social activities, from formals to tailgates. Students should consider the types of social activities they are interested in.
- Size and Location: The size and location of a Greek chapter may also be important factors. Students should consider how involved they want to be and how close they want to be to their chapter house.
Applying for Greek Life
To apply for Greek life at Georgia Southern, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be a full-time student with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Complete the Greek Life Application.
- Attend Greek Rush events.
- Receive an invitation from a Greek chapter to join.
Greek Life Statistics at Georgia Southern
According to the university’s Office of Greek Life, over 4,000 students are involved in Greek organizations at Georgia Southern. This represents approximately 15% of the university’s undergraduate student population. Of these students:
- 55% are female
- 45% are male
- 30% are members of multicultural Greek organizations
Tips for Succeeding in Greek Life
To succeed in Greek life at Georgia Southern, students should:
- Engage with Their Chapter: Actively participate in chapter events and activities.
- Seek Leadership Opportunities: Take on leadership roles within the chapter and the broader community.
- Maintain Academic Success: Prioritize their academic responsibilities and seek support from their chapter when needed.
- Get Involved in Community Service: Participate in community service projects to give back to the local community.
- Connect with Alumni: Attend alumni events and build relationships with former members.
Notable Greek Life Alumni from Georgia Southern
Georgia Southern’s Greek life community has produced numerous notable alumni, including:
- Politicians: Senator Raphael Warnock, Georgia State Senator Lester Jackson
- Business Leaders: CEO of Georgia Power Chris Womack, CEO of Chick-fil-A Dan Cathy
- Media Personalities: ESPN’s Maria Taylor, CNN’s Don Lemon
- Community Leaders: Philanthropist and civic leader Lynn Hagen, founder of Habitat for Humanity Jimmy Carter
Conclusion
Greek life at Georgia Southern University offers a unique and transformative experience for students. Through its focus on leadership development, academic support, community service, and social connection, Greek organizations provide students with valuable opportunities to grow personally and professionally. With a wide range of chapters to choose from, students are sure to find a home in the Greek life community at Georgia Southern.
