As a parent, you are undoubtedly concerned about your son's college experience and the choices he will make.
For your son, making the transition from high school, or a community college, to a four-year university may seem like an imposing challenge. Our research with new students tell us one of the following questions will be on his mind:
Fraternities and sororities exist as a proven support network for your child as he embarks on this new period in life. Over 400,000 students across the country are currently members of the Greek system (the term "Greek" refers to both fraternities and sororities).
This guide is designed to answer some of the questions you may have about membership. If you still have any questions after reviewing this guide, please contact us at 317.585.4911 or e-mail Alpha Kappa Lambda Headquarters.
Q: Are fraternities and sororities like the ones shown in the movie "Animal House?"
A: Fraternity and sorority members have been categorized as elitist, spoiled, partiers, irresponsible and abusive since the showing of this movie.
In reality, fraternities and sororities are values-based organizations dedicated to the development of character and lifelong friendships.
Q: Should alcohol be a concern if my son joins a Greek organization?
A: All fraternities and sororities have strict polices regulating the consumption of alcohol at social functions. All chapters are expected to uphold state, county and city laws, as well as each university's policy regarding the consumption of alcohol.
The majority of Alpha Kappa Lambda chapters do not allow the possession of alcohol in their living environments. In addition, each chapter of AKL conducts alcohol management programming to educate and instill standards and expectations for their members.
These risk management guidelines are set by AKL's national board of directors and must adhere to each university's student organization policy. Therefore, we highly encourage your son to ask this very question to each chapter he visits.
To demonstrate the fraternity's commitment to responsible behavior, all members of Alpha Kappa Lambda are expected to complete an online education program called "AlcoholEDU for College." AlcoholEDU for College is a Web-based alcohol prevention program that is recognized nationally for its effectiveness. The program uses the latest prevention techniques and science-based research to educate students about the impact of alcohol.
Q: I want my son to succeed academically. Will his membership hinder those efforts?
A: Every chapter of Alpha Kappa Lambda understands that its members are students first and provide recognition to those who excel and improve their academic standing.
AKL diligently trains its men for academic excellence and improved scholastic achievement. As a result, our chapters consistently perform higher academically than the average student at our host universities!
In addition to AKL's grade point average requirement, each chapter has chosen a grade point average requirement which meets or exceeds this standard that each member must maintain to be in good standing. Chapters also offer academic assistance for its members, providing study hall areas, peer tutoring and academic scholarships.*
* Academic scholarship criteria is created and funded by each chapter's governing body (i.e., student members and alumni). Be sure to inquire about academic scholarships while your son is considering membership into AKL.
Q: What will it cost for my son to go Greek?
A: The financial obligations that accompany membership differs slightly from chapter to chapter. Each organization is self supporting, functioning from dues paid by its members. The first year of membership is generally higher due to a one-time initiation fee into the fraternity or sorority.
Fraternity houses offer a "home away from home." Living within a chapter house furthers your son's growth and development, and provides much of the comfort and support of a family environment. The costs of room and board in fraternity houses are usually competitive with university rates. Each chapter will be able to provide your son with specific financial information during Recruitment or whenever he happens to visit.
Q: What about the "pledging" process and hazing?
A: Hazing is opposed by Alpha Kappa Lambda National Headquarters and its host universities. It will not be tolerated! Your son should never be asked to do anything he does not want to do.
When your son joins a chapter, he will participate in a period of orientation meetings where he learns about the history and values of the organization and the university, as well as attend weekly business meetings referred to as "chapter meetings".
If you believe your son is being hazed, please contact our office immediately at 317.585.4911 or e-mail the Executive Director.
For more information on hazing, please visit StopHazing.org.