RECRUITMENT 2023
FAQ
What are the requirements for joining a sorority?
First, all students seeking membership in a Fraternity or Sorority must be a Sophomore or higher standing at Colgate University. All Sororities have different GPA requirements, so we would recommend having at least a 2.7 GPA. Specific chapters may have their own requirements. Those will be disclosed by the chapters early on in the recruitment process.
In addition to academic requirements, there are also time commitments that members are required to adhere to. Members are expected to attend chapter meetings, events, service projects, and philanthropic fundraisers. Prospective members should have conversations with chapter members about the time commitments that members are expected to uphold.
What are the financial obligations for joining a sorority?
All sororities charge members chapter dues. Chapter dues are utilized to sustain chapter operations and fund the leadership & educational programming, social activities, & philanthropic and service projects that are important to the Fraternity & Sorority experience. Chapters do not receive funding from the University, therefore, rely on these chapter dues to operate.
The cost of dues for each chapter, and the breakdown of where the money goes for each chapter, can be found HERE.
Additionally, each sorority offers opportunities for meal plans and housing (housing is only for Juniors & Seniors). Meal plans & housing costs are comparable to the costs of other meal plan & housing options at Colgate University. The cost breakdowns for meal plans and housing are available HERE.
Will sorority membership affect my grades?
While joining a chapter will definitely take up some time in one’s schedule, it's up to each member to manage time appropriately and maintain the academic standard that suits them.
All chapters emphasize high academic standards. There is recognition and scholarships for those who excel academically in addition to programs and support for those who may be struggling in their academic pursuits.
Do I have to live in the chapter house? When am I allowed to live in the chapter house?
In short, no, there is no specific requirement for a general member to live in the chapter house.
That said, as you engage in your chapter, you may pursue a leadership position within your chapter that requires you to live in the house (President, House Manager, etc.). Additionally, chapters are highly encouraged to fully occupy their chapter houses, so you may be asked to live in the house if it is not filled.
Only Juniors and Seniors are permitted to live in the chapter house. Sophomores are allowed and encouraged to visit and hang out at the chapter house, as well as eat their specified meals at the chapter house.
How do I register for Sorority Primary Recruitment?
Register online at https://colgate.mycampusdirector2.com/landing/.
Registration opens on August 1, 2023 and closes September 1, 2023 at 11:55pm.
How many sororities at Colgate University participate in sorority recruitment?
There are three sororities that participate in sorority recruitment. These sororities are Gamma Phi Beta, Delta Delta Delta, and Kappa Kappa Gamma. All three sororities are associated with national or international organizations and recognized by Colgate University. Their national and local websites are a great place to find more information!
Click here to go to the “Our Organizations” page to learn more about our three sororities.
When is Sorority Primary Recruitment?
Primary Recruitment will be held on Wednesday, September 13, through Sunday, September 17, 2023.
What is the cost to go through Sorority Primary Recruitment?
There is no cost to go through Sorority Primary Recruitment.
What does "mutual selection" mean?
Mutual Selection refers to the idea that chapters select which PNMs they want to talk to again, and PNMs select which chapters they want to visit again. This decision is two sided, and therefore mutual.
I have a conflict during one of the recruitment dates, what do I do?
You are able to provide us with your scheduling information and any possible conflicts when you register for recruitment.
You can also email panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu and explain the exact dates and times you will be gone, as well as a reason (if you are comfortable sharing) and we will work together to find a solution.
What are the requirements for going through Primary Sorority Recruitment?
- Completing your registration form.
- Attending the scheduled events for sorority recruitment.
- Most chapters have a minimum GPA requirement for their new members, so either meeting the requirement or being able to explain why you might fall below that and your plans for academic excellence in college.
- Having a great attitude and be yourself!
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Will my current college GPA affect my chances of joining a sorority?
Member organizations do set GPA requirements for membership, though any woman can register for recruitment no matter their GPA.
It is possible after the first round of recruitment that you may not get invited back to a chapter where you had a great conversation if your GPA does not meet the chapter’s standards. You may also be released from the recruitment process if your GPA does not meet any chapter’s grade requirements. If you get released from recruitment related to your grades, recognize it is a standard of membership for all chapters. Focus on improving your college GPA, and if you remain interested in sorority membership (which we want you to do!), you can participate later during the continuous open bidding (COB) period or in primary recruitment the following year.
Also, during recruitment, ask about how sororities can support you academically once you become a member. If all this sounds intimidating, don’t worry! Every chapter has at least one person – and usually many more – dedicated to furthering academic success for members.
Do I need letters of recommendation for each chapter?
Letters of recommendation are not required. These letters will not help you or hurt you during your Primary Recruitment process. It is important to remember that this process is for you to find where you belong within Sorority Life rather than on a piece of paper.
Can I join if I'm not a second year student? Can I join as a third or fourth year student?
Yes! Our community is filled with a variety of individuals who have different backgrounds and experiences. Going through recruitment at any point during your collegiate career is encouraged.
What is a Recruitment Group, and how big will my Recruitment Group be?
Recruitment Groups are randomly assigned small groups of women who have registered for recruitment. Each recruitment group is typically around 10-20 women. Once classes begin, you can expect to get to know women going through recruitment within your group as well as outside of your group. Participating in Recruitment Group meetings/activities will be a great way for you to meet new people.
If I go through recruitment do I have to join a sorority?
Participating in Primary Recruitment does not obligate you to join. Recruitment is a time to meet new people and explore the opportunities and benefits of Sorority Life, and there is no requirement to join the community even if you sign up for recruitment or choose to go through some events. Please keep in mind the requirements once one signs an MRABA. We will provide more information on this and if there is any confusion please contact panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu.
What should I talk about during sorority recruitment?
The most important thing to remember is to be yourself. Don't be afraid to ask questions because it is very important for you to get to know the women and the chapters. Some questions you may want to ask are:
What are the expectations of your new member program?
What is your philanthropy?
What kind of academic program do you have?
What campus activities is your sorority or its members involved in?
What's your favorite part about being in a sorority?
What leadership opportunities are there?
Who should I talk to if I am unsure about continuing the process?
We are happy to help chat through your thoughts and support you in making the best decision for you.
Feel free to message us on Instagram at @colgatepanhellenic or email panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu with any questions that may arise.
Once you are registered for recruitment, you can contact your Recruitment Counselor (once assigned) about any of your questions or concerns, or reach out to any member of the Panhellenic Recruitment Team.
Where can I find more information?
You can DM us on Instagram at any point with your questions @colgatepanhellenic or contact the Recruitment Team at panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu.