By Toma Lynn Smith
Greek life pervades the University of Louisville campus so much that one may try to recall the Greek alphabet, translate the letters on a Chi Omega’s tote bag or decipher the chalking on the sidewalks in front of Ekstrom library like the ancient runes of Delphi.
“This fall we have had more people join fraternities and sororities as far as our records go back,” said Joni Knight Burke, assistant director of Student Activities and Greek advisor.
She said the Interfraternity Council and the Panhellenic Council are thrilled with all of the fraternities’ and sororities’ recruitment efforts and results. The third division of Greeks at U of L is the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Their recruitment is held at various times throughout the school year.
Despite this increase in numbers, the Greek system often carries a negative image.
“Greek,” the ABC Family sitcom’s slogan is, “College. It’s a rush.” The show focuses on the clichéd antics of those who are Greek affiliated, showcasing excessive drinking and a preoccupation with the opposite sex.
The reality is that not all Greek life mirrors this behavior.
“While I know that the show is mostly mocking Greek stereotypes, people who have never been a part of the Greek system might not understand that and take the show literally,” said Katy Buerger, graduate assistant for Greek Life, who is working toward her master’s in education in college student personnel.
Buerger said she joined a sorority in her undergraduate years. “I knew it would allow me many opportunities to meet new people and get involved,” she said.
Many students disagree.
Senior anthropology major Carie Ernst said, “You could find the same thing elsewhere without all the stipulations.”
Those “stipulations” include paying membership dues and attending meetings on a regular basis.
“To join a fraternity or sorority, there is a financial commitment as well as a time commitment,” said Burke. “Sometimes that keeps people from participating.”
She said these organizations give a structured setting and a student will always have someone to share activities with, such as attending football games together. It can assist with creating long lasting friendships and connections like networking for career opportunities.
However, Ernst said that can be obtained without the money and the meetings – and looking the same.
She said she particularly notices that members of sororities have a tendency to wear their hair the same and consistently duplicate each other’s style. With actions like these, she said, it makes for an “exclusive group.”
Zeta Phi Beta member Arielle Rogers said that members of her sorority pride themselves on letting everybody, not just Greeks, participate in their activities such as fundraisers. As a member, however, she said it’s “a sacred thing between sisters.”
Dr. Anita P. Barbee, who teaches at the Kent School of Social Work, said those who are involved in a fraternity or sorority don’t see it as they’re the ones excluding students. She said it is an opportunity for students “to meet new people the minute they arrive on campus” and that it “provides an instant connection to the university.”
Though some students may feel alienated by the idea of Greek life, many enjoy the home away from home they find on Greek Row.
