Visit the sororitys website to find a grad chapter in your area. The potential new member lists three sororities in her order of preference. Here are some of the most well-known fraternities and sororities: Its important to note that these are just a few examples of the many fraternities and sororities that exist, and there are many other organizations with different names, values, and goals. The different items of Greek clothing or items someone is wearing. Gamma Phi Beta offers a similar commitment to service and leadership opportunities. Some sororities earmark specific charities and causes for which they work to raise money. In the same way females can rush a sorority, guys can join a fraternity. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Location: only the best city in the world, This forum is for various discussion topics regarding greek life. Sororities choose their colors to reflect their identity, history, and goals, and to promote a positive image and influence within the communities they serve. The names of sororities are often chosen for their historical significance, cultural heritage, and symbolic meaning. With the advice given here, you should be much better equipped to do so. Fraternities and sororities can be tax-exempt 501 (c) (7) organizations in the United States. Such hazing acts are done in order to pledge or otherwise be initiated into membership in any group. Short for paraphernalia. 2022 (July 15, 2022) https://www.baylor.edu/studentactivities/index.php?id=944795, Lake, Sydney. And there are a lot of them: national dues . Costs of being a sorority member differ depending on the campus. "National History." The brother or sister, son or daughter, or grandson or granddaughter of a fraternity or sorority member. The term means different things to different groups, but generally means crossing over from being a pledge to being a full member. The Big Sis (often shortened to just "Big") is there to help a new member adjust to sorority life. Anchor - The last person of the line. At a smaller university or a college with less Greek interest, sorority recruitment events are usually much less formal gatherings. These nicknames can be easier to pronounce than the full Greek version. Additionally, some houses may have names that reflect the local area or region where the house is located. We all have linenames that are characteristics/descriptions of diamonds. The hardest sorority to get into is often debated, but some of the most competitive can include Alpha Phi at Harvard University, Delta Gamma at the University of California, Berkeley, and Kappa Alpha Theta at Stanford University. The graduate chapter of NPHC or Multicultural organization. Do you have the funds? They are some of the largest and oldest historically African American fraternities and sororities in the United States and have a strong presence on college and university campuses. This period varies for all groups. ** My advice has helped many people approach NPHC organizations the right way. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Essence.com Advertising Terms. Much like deciding which college to attend, deciding whether to rush is a personal decision. These rituals often have ties to Greek secret society rituals and involve symbols, and perhaps even costumes. But people also associate sororities with elitism, racism, alcohol abuse, eating disorders and promiscuity. One Black member said that a sign saying "Token" was held up as she played for her sorority's Intramural softball team, and there have been many reported instances of blackface and racially inappropriate dress and actions [source: Skinner]. 2022 (July 15, 2022) https://aka1908.com/about/history/, Baylor University. Sororities often have distinct names and symbols, including specific colors, that help to identify and distinguish them from other organizations. In Bruh culture in the South, the big brothers give you your individual line name but the line gets the honor of coming up with it's own collective name. We were the last line of the last millennium. If it were me I'd want to pay some respect to the split line and make it something related to the original line. If you want to change up some of the traditions (like song or name) do that, but you don't need to disassociate yourself from your family line. And thats not all: Be prepared for unforeseen costs, whether that means buying clothing items, purchasing conference tickets or paying for monthly and/or annual dues. Sororities began as a way for women to find intellectual and social companionship with one another. Additionally, the name and logo of the sorority should be protected through trademark registration. Some fraternities and sororities are culturally-based, while others are service-based or focus on specific academic or professional interests. The Future of Omega!!!! Ferris State University. This isn't the Mafia where you get your own family after you whack enough people & have enough territory. April 5, 2022 (July 15, 2022) https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2022/04/05/hazing-incidents-spark-questions-sororities, National Panhellenic Conference. Make sure you're prepared before taking the plunge. Shoot, maybe you just decided that you wanted to pledge yesterday. While every sorority sister may not adhere to the ideals of her organization, there is ample opportunity to be involved in charitable work. ** IF YOU FOUND THIS VIDEO HELPFUL PLEASE SHARE IT ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR WITH A FRIEND**..CHECK OUT MY NPHC ADVICE PLAYLIST I have a whole playlist dedicated to giving you advice on NPHC Fraternities \u0026 Sororities. Any member who has completed the new member process and has gone through the initiation ceremony. how do sororities pick who to ask back? Look to the Women You AdmireSome women join a sorority because of family ties. Phi Lambda Macaroni This silly twist on Greek letters is perfect for someone with a passion for cereal-based dishes! The word "sorority" did not come into being until 1882 with the founding of Gamma Phi Beta, whose adviser suggested the word might be more appropriate than "fraternity" to describe the bond of sisterhood [source: ADPi]. A period of learning about fraternity and sorority life prior to initiation. My lines name is Divine 49. You will be redirected once the validation is complete. Term used to refer to an older brother/sister from your chapter. Each of them were given to us for something that stood out about us. For a smaller group of rushees, sorority members could simply discuss the merits of the potential new members among themselves and then hold a vote on each potential new member. Black women who join NPC-affiliated sororities report rampant racism, from microaggressions like being referred to as "the Black girl," to the use of full-on racial slurs. Sororities started calling it "recruitment" instead of "rush" to try to distance themselves from its hazing-heavy '80s-movie connotations. if they all use animals, use an animal name. Some groups number their lines by Greek Letters (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, etc.) If a potential new member meets all of her pledgeship requirements, she may be eligible for initiation, a secret ritual event during which she will become a full member of the sorority. Sororities often use Greek letters as their names, similar to fraternities. What happens if an active advocates highly for you but you are on the line/barely make the gpa cutoff? When you consider the time commitment that most intake processes require, it might be smart to take a lighter course load that wont wreck your GPA. A percentage of your time might be spent planning parties and rehearsing for step shows, but the majority of members time is spent giving back to localand national and internationalcommunities. Sororities are typically named based on the mission, values, and goals of the organization. Macon, Georgia, saw the first secret society for women in 1851: the Adelphean Society (now called Alpha Delta Pi). It's also a safe bet that prospective members should do a quick social media scrub to ensure that it's tasteful, as it's a safe bet that existing sisters scroll through rushee accounts to make sure their standards and presence are in line with the organization's. For example, the Big Sis of your Big Sis would be your Grand Big Sis. The large necklace worn with large Greek letters on them. You should probably keep it in line with the rest of your chapter- e.g. Probably the best way to go about this would be to get other sisters to latch onto the idea of making mini-families within each family so there won't be any hurt feelings. Memorable Line Names: Posted on 10-16-2005: GetItRightTheFirstTime: NY, NY: Some basic ones: Ivy League Final DSTination. What may be right for one woman may not be right for another even if you are a legacy with your mother and grandmother in good alumna standing with a certain sorority. 1. Watch this video to find out!If you have video suggestions please click on the link below to submit them! A member in good standing. Related, but separate. If a sorority member would like to engage in behavior not becoming of the sorority, she cannot wear her letters. Some of the most elite sororities that contribute to their respective colleges and universities are Kappa Kappa Gamma, Delta Delta Delta, Zeta Tau Alpha, Delta Zeta and Alpha Phi. 17cts. Members participate in community service projects such as Adopt-A-School or Make A Difference Day to build their sense of camaraderie while making a difference in the lives of those around them. These organizations are often identified by their Greek letters and have distinct names and symbols. With a large recruitment group, sometimes a computer algorithm can help by matching sororities and their favorite rushees with rushees and their preferred houses. Because of negative associations with words like "pledge," many sororities have chosen to adopt new language. The name often reflects the purpose or focus of the sorority, such as academic achievement, community service, or leadership development. Sometimes they will refer to someone as simply Frat. The representative body governing historically Latino/Latina Greek Letter organizations. Pearls and sweater sets? A charitable fundraiser or service project sponsored by a fraternity or sorority. A Panhellenic sorority member who has temporarily disaffiliated from her chapter during formal membership recruitment. 45 Famous Black Sorority and Fraternity Members. All four organizations provide strong foundations from which students can develop into successful individuals capable of achieving great things within society today and tomorrow. each sorority has different ways, but I doubt there are any that sit in a room and vote, because that would take literally all night- usually the girls that talk to you will advocate to those working behind the scenes for you to either be cut or asked back, and that might be through ballots or a points system or something different If you have video suggestions please click on the link below to submit them! Do you have the time? A new member of a cultural Greek organization. However, its imperative that you take a step back and consider which sorority is a good fit for you. You will have to go through a number of recruitment processes to land yourself a coveted spot. Each sorority prides itself on its own unique traditions, which means that all rituals are secret and must never be discussed with non-members. 2022 (July 18, 2022) https://www.npcwomen.org/about/our-member-organizations/, National Pan-Hellenic Council. Sororities often have themed socials with fraternities where sorority members get to meet and mingle with fraternity members while dressed up in costume. A ritual ceremony that designates the start of a new member process. You may be used to telling your girlfriends everything and then some, but youre going to have to remain mum on this area of your life. Governing body for 72 national member men's fraternities and alumni associations. Aug 23, 2006. The central organization of a particular fraternity or sorority. 2022 (July 18, 2022) https://nphchq.com/millennium1/about/, Nuer Hank, "Hazing in Fraternities and Sororities." Some black sororities used to use a "brown paper bag test" if a potential new member's skin was darker than a paper bag, she would be ineligible to join [source: Pilgrim]. Ever wondered we assign line numbers? Sorority names often have special meanings, like qualities associated with the sisterhood or reference to past members, that serve as a reminder of their groups shared values and history. Here are the meanings of some common sorority names: Here are some of the most common sorority names: These are historically African American fraternities and sororities, commonly referred to as the Divine Nine.. Location: Reppin 205, Gettin educated in 256, I visited one of my high school buddies at her college one weekend, and members of XYZ sorority had line names that were the names of STDs. At many colleges, the sororities give out formal bids on one special day, which is called bid day. Beta Mu Noodles Perfect for past lovers or current noodle fans, Beta Mu Noodles is an amusing choice! If a potential new member accepts a sorority bid, she becomes a new member, more commonly known as a pledge. However, the semester that youre on line might not be the best time to enroll in Organic Chemistry. This is one instance where people get the idea that sororities can be superficial snap judgments may be made based purely on looks. Epsilon Kappa Soup Epsilon Kappa offers a sense of comfort with hot soup ready at all times! She was a strong goddess who even Zeus could not stand up to. https://goo.gl/forms/9wMYAFWeEj5TteFk1 My Fraternity: http://www.phibetasigma1914.org**DISCLAIMER: All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not a reflection of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. Most groups record this time to the second. Once youve pledged, youre a member for lifemany women find a new grad chapter home. Black sororities took up the tradition some time later. Some sororities actually don't have houses and meet instead somewhere on campus or another facility. Many sororities also require you pay dues and other fees, which can get steep - especially if youre already a poor student. Read on to find out. For example, at Ole Miss a new member who is not living in the sorority house can expect to pay an average of $2,300 for the first semester alone. 4. Like what exactly do they do??? A member of your organization or another culturally based organization that was initiated at the same time you were. Ideally, rush is a time for potential new members and sisters to meet one another and see if they would be a good fit. Here are some of the most well-known sororities that are not historically African American: Its important to note that these sororities are open to all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity, and aim to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members. Gamma Lamb Cake Not just any cake but one made from lambswool? Usually done in a public forum after members have been initiated. The names of sororities are often chosen for their historical significance, cultural heritage, and symbolic meaning. Alpha Gamma Delta: The name represents the sororitys founding principles of loving, leading, and lasting friendships. Its members are active in philanthropic endeavors such as Habitat for Humanity and volunteer work with local schools. The name that applies to all Greek organizations characterized by a ritual, badge and strong ties to friendship and moral principles. Our line names came from our 'big sisters' and were all greek names (Greek Goddesses). The most outgoing beautiful girl coming through recruitment will be placed at the bottom of the list if her grades are really bad. Kappa Alpha Theta (Theta) Founded in 1870, Thetas mission is to offer lifelong opportunities for womens friendship, personal growth, and leadership development. A local group of the larger (inter)national organization, designated by a special Greek name. Added bonus: Youll be among the first to know about any upcoming membership intake processes. In this video, I will describe the process in which line names are created. Use our t-shirt maker to design your own. Wearing a sorority's letters is considered an honor. #14. It may be an open discussion between members of the sorority or a more confidential, written process. Greek Letter Organizations have names formed of usually 2 to 4 Greek letters. For example, the name Lambda Phi Omega is composed of three separate terms: Lambda (Greek letter), Phi (an acronym for love and friendship) and Omega (last letter of the Greek alphabet). Aug. 23, 2021 (July 15, 2022) https://fortune.com/education/business/articles/2021/08/24/southern-sorority-recruitment-is-like-the-college-admissions-process-rush-coach-says/, Moody, Josh. Nobody had a degrading line name however some were less than desirable but only if you knew the "true" meaning, but to give someone an obviously disrespectful line name is out of order. Stunning, Ideal. Some have a cut off of 3.0 before even . "Southern sorority recruitment is like the college admissions process, rush coach says." The name given to a pledge class. Congrats! BuzzFeed. She was a strong goddess who even Zeus could not stand up to. It is associated with a specific college, does not participate in formal recruitment or formal Greek events, and therefore has lower fees. Each sorority has its own traditions and practices, but in many cases, expect to spend a percentage of each day either with your line sisters, brushing up on your chapter history or doing other mandated rituals. I can't imagine how a chapter would all be in one of four. Its a Time-Consuming ProcessThough it varies from organization to organization, you will be on line anywhere from one to three months (and chances are, you will eat, sleep and breathe your soon-to-be sorority that semester). For example, someone from the Epsilon sorority with a tendency for over-the-top reactions might be called Ensane. The service requires full JavaScript support in order to view this website. Sisters are forbidden to reveal the sorority ritual or its secrets. Pledging Post-Grad is an OptionMaybe your finances werent right the first time around. Hazing in a sorority might include forcing pledges to go without sleep, forcing them to binge drink, scaring them or forcing them to do degrading tasks. Required fields are marked *. At these schools, attending a rush party can be seen as an indication of your interest in joining that sorority. During the last part of Panhellenic sorority recruitment, a potential new member determines which particular sorority she is willing to join. On college campuses, it tends to be a bigger problem in fraternities, but it certainly also happens in sororities. When choosing a name, consider what the organization represents and what its members want to accomplish, and look for names that reflect these values and aspirations. Kappa Alpha Theta: The name represents the sororitys values of academic excellence, leadership, personal growth, and sisterhood. 8. My other line sisters names fitted them as well -- All in the family (legacy member); Perfect Stranger (no one knew who she was before we 'pledged'); America's Most Wanted (received unanimous votes to make line); Taxi (always had to take the big sisters somewhere); Empty Nest (very, very, sweet, but very dingy), Jeopardy ..and etc. If more than 1,000 girls go through rush, realistically most of the sorority members will not meet each girl. Have there been other members of the pledges family in this frat/sorority before? Social life is a big part of being in a sorority. Additionally, actresses like Blake Lively, Jessica Simpson, and Danica McKellar were all once members of Pi Beta Phi. At some schools, a rushee has to rush all sororities meaning she must meet with each group at least once and attend each rush event. A college student who is interested in joining a Greek Organization and is taking part in the recruitment process. Before joining, get familiarize yourself with the chapter by attending events and meetings its members. The specific line names used by each sorority can vary widely and are often unique to the individual chapter. Not very creative, but it was time to go the printers. Feb. 2014 (July 15, 2022) https://www.ferris.edu/HTMLS/news/jimcrow/question/2014/february.htm, Skinner, Paige. Location: Seemingly in perpetual registration. ESSENCE.com is part of ESSENCE Communications, Inc. ADOP/ADP would be the assistant dean. Like are all the sisters in a big room and they just vote for who they want? Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (DST) Established in 1913, DSTs mission is to promote academic excellence, political awareness, and social action. That sounds pretty much like what our chapter did. The second you walk out the door the actives who talked to you vote. Here is a list of 57 sorority names, in alphabetical order: Below are some ideas for sorority names that could reflect the values and goals of the organization: Its important to keep in mind that the name of a sorority should reflect the values, goals, and identity of the organization, and should serve as a symbol of unity and sisterhood among its members. The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) oversees traditionally black sororities and fraternities. someone paying dues). Each sorority has its own traditions and practices, but in many cases, expect to spend a percentage of each day either with your line sisters, brushing up on your chapter history or doing other . Theres More to it Than the Social AspectRepeat after us: I will not join a sorority simply so I can throw up my sign for the Gram.. The idea that sorority life is just about being social frustrates many sorority members, whose national chapters and mission statements stress the importance of scholarship and service. If you're considering going through rush, there are some sorority recruitment terms you might want to know: Each sorority has a different private way of voting for new members. Big white mansions? There might be mandated study times, weekly meetings and optional social events. The specified number of potential new members to which each sorority may extend a bid. Does the pledge have traits in common with a god/goddess? Many Latino/Latina and Multicultural groups participate in stepping as well. Marking the transition with a special ceremony, which has been upheld for decades or even a century, is meant to have a powerful effect on the initiate, tying her to a tradition, the ideals of the founders and an idea of sisterhood. "About the NPHC." Additionally, sororities also have symbols that represent their organization, such as badges, crests, and mascots. Term also refers to "Crossing the Burning Sands.". The number you are assigned based on the chronological order you are in on your initiation line (often members of other culturally based organizations identify or relate to one another by distinguishing that they are the "same" number). actuallygoodteamnames.com is using a security service for protection against online attacks. Rushees should understand that pledging involves a hefty time commitment. Sigma Kappa is another prominent sorority with an emphasis on personal growth through meaningful friendships and philanthropic activities such as Alzheimers awareness campaigns or Walk to End Alzheimers events held across the country every year. A line name is a unique badge that signifies a members identity in a fraternity or sorority. Our line names all came from our personalities or something that was known about us or anything we may have expereinced going through our process. Fraternities and sororities, also called Greek Letter Organizations, are social organizations at colleges and universities found primarily in the United States and the Philippines. Press, 2018) (July 21, 2022) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/304194128_Hazing_in_Fraternities_and_Sororities, Pilgrim, David. Fraternities and sororities engage in philanthropic activities, host parties, provide "finishing" training for new members such as instruction on etiquette, dress and manners, and create networking opportunities for their newly graduated members. Sororities began as a way for women to find intellectual and social companionship with one another. These sororities cater to a specific cultural interest a sorority for Asian-American women or Latina women, for example. Phi Mu: The name represents the sororitys founding principles of love, honor, and truth. A pendant with a fraternity or sorority's Greek letters on it. Now is not the time for gossip. Sometimes these students will band together and form an interest group. Sororities like these now fall under the umbrella of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), a congress of 26 national and international sororities. It sounds like everyone in her chapter basically fits into one of four "families" and she wants a smaller family unit. In this article, we'll discuss the sorority recruitment process, what pledging is like and what to expect from life as a member of a sorority. But for others, it can be the very opposite. Ever wondered we assign line numbers? As rush progresses, potential new members and sororities list their choices in order of preference. Recent instances of sorority hazing have made headlines. Pillow fights? . What other hobbies does the pledge have? Hera (my line name) is the greek goddess of marriage, birth, and women. Additionally, once the name has been selected it should be legally protected and registered with the appropriate organizations in order to prevent others from using it. The first step show of an initiated member is called a probate show. gr. Sororities are social organizations for women that are found on college and university campuses, similar to fraternities for men. Can vary by chapter but then exceptions for legacies. Twitter (@Mrdapper_): https://twitter.com/MrDapper_ Instagram (@Mrdapper_): https://www.instagram.com/mrdapper_/Snapchat: mrdapper14Music by: Lakey Inspired: https://soundcloud.com/lakeyinspired KZ Chill Mode: https://soundcloud.com/kzchillmodeJulian Avila: https://soundcloud.com/julian_avilaJoakim Karud: https://soundcloud.com/joakimkarud Fraternity and Sorority Definitions (Greek Dictionary). Women are expected to provide resumes detailing their grades and accomplishments, as well as letters of recommendation from sorority alumni for the various chapters. What kinds of clothes does the pledge usually wear? Related, but separate. While colleges are cracking down on hazing, it also still happens, which is never a good experience and is quite problematic. She'll meet the other new members and spend time bonding with current members. Is there anything they seem like they cant live without? Additionally, this organization focuses on creating young women who have developed excellent characters through integrity, self-discipline, humility and determination. Our entire line name is one of those abbreviated things only we would understand and nobody should know what it stands for. Learn more about who we are. No, the actives talking to you don't know anything about you beforehand if they haven't met you before- and yes that can make a difference if you make a big impression and they talk to the recruitment team, but usually actives only do that if they know you from outside rush or if they REALLY think you would be a perfect fit and they want you for their little or something, Yes, in mine actives know your GPA and we have a strict cut off. New members must also spend some additional study time getting ready for a sort of entrance exam, which each pledge must pass in order to join the sorority. Big Brother or Sister An active member of a fraternity or sorority who serves as a mentor to a new member, guiding him or her through the new member program and initiation. 8) These are all my friends AKAs-the line here was named after the 20 founders here are some of my friends names "Beulahful" "Livinia Deams" "QuAKAtude" ZPhiB "Hype Williamz" Nupe "Ben Karson" -pre med major "Kool Running"- track runner. Alpha Chi Omega, for example, is one of the oldest sororities in existence and is well-known for its ethos of sisterhood and leadership. For example, she might not be allowed to drink alcohol while sporting her sorority necklace. Delta Gamma: The name represents the sororitys founding principles of fostering high ideals of friendship, promoting educational and cultural interests, and advancing a sense of social responsibility. Cujo! The women talk, perform skits, sing songs and share personal stories about what the sisterhood means to them. Anything unusual? She is specially trained to help potential new members and answer any questions they may have about sorority membership. Perhaps as a measure to maintain the house average, some sororities have been known (and criticized) for having a sort of cheater's cache file drawers full of tests and class papers. I personally do not see what the bid deal is. My individual line name was chosen because I was the one who always asked questions, and more questions. The pledge class practices together to perform a stepping routine during a campus step show. Sororities are social organizations for women that are found on college and university campuses, similar to fraternities for men. So wear your colors and letters with pride; youre fam now. Usually the local grad chapter oversees the operations of the undergraduate chapter. Please enable cookies on your browser and try again. "These Black Sorority Members Are Speaking Out Against The Racism They Faced In Their Chapters." In addition to the historically African American fraternities and sororities, there are also many other sororities that are not part of the Divine Nine, but still have a strong presence on college and university campuses. Katie Lambert & Alia Hoyt Some common characteristics of sorority names include: In general, sorority names are chosen to reflect the values, goals, and identity of the organization, and to serve as a symbol of unity and sisterhood among its members.