Frequently Asked Questions

Specific questions about Fraternity Life or Fraternity Recruitment?

Specific questions about Sorority Life or Sorority Recruitment?

Office of Student Involvement

General FAQ's

For Students

Why join a fraternity or sorority?

Joining a fraternal organization offers many benefits, from academic encouragement and support, lifelong friendships, numerous leadership possibilities, and social activities, to philanthropic and service opportunities. Members are also introduced to alumni of their organizations from all over the world. By joining a fraternity or sorority, a person can create an entire network of people.

How do I join?

Recruitment is the process in which Potential New Members (PNMs) explore fraternity or sorority chapters and ultimately make a selection that’s a mutual fit for both them and the chapter. Recruitment events consist of learning about the distinct values and purpose of each chapter, forming relationships with the members, and ultimately making a choice of whether or not to join the Fraternity and Sorority community. Conversations should revolve around these principles. More information can be found on the Fraternity webpage, the NPC Sorority Recruitment webpage, or the Culturally Based Organizations webpage. 

How much will it cost?

At first glance, joining a fraternity or a sorority might seem expensive. However, the benefits outweigh the costs. Fraternity and sorority chapters are self-sufficient, self-governed and controlled, independent student organizations. Chapters collect dues and membership fees from members and most groups have one-time initiation fees, plus semester dues. Dues are spent on philanthropic and social events, scholarship programming, membership recruitment, and parent/alumni programming. Most chapters offer payment plans and scholarships to help their members meet their financial obligations. Room and board costs for many chapters with facilities are comparable to rates at on and off campus options.

How can a fraternity/sorority help me academically?

Academic achievement is a priority for fraternities and sororities. Many organizations enforce grade point average requirements and offer study sessions, tutoring, and other programs to assist members. Many chapters also provide incentives to their members who excel in the classroom. Students who take advantage of the academic support available and properly balance their time between academic and extracurricular pursuits may find that membership enhances their academic performance.

How much time does membership require?

Like most other extra-curricular activities, how much you get out of your membership is related to how much you put in. On average, expect to contribute four hours per week for meetings and mandatory activities. Optional activities, such as serving as an officer, attending social events, competing on an intramural sports team, or helping out with various projects, will take additional time. With prioritization and good time management, fraternity or sorority activities can easily fit into your weekly schedule and still allow plenty of time for classes, studying, work, and participation in other campus activities.

What about misconduct?

You may have heard about hazing in the media. Hazing is a violation of The University of Northern Iowa's Student Conduct Code or Panhellenic Council policy and state law. Sanctions can be brought forth for individual students and/or organizations alleged of hazing. If you ever feel you may have been hazed or harassed by a fraternity or sorority at UNI, file an incident report immediately. To file an incident/complaint, please contact the Fraternity & Sorority Life Staff. Each organization has their own policies and procedures for dealing with misconduct. The Panhellenic Council and the Office of Student Involvement, has policies. If a chapter violates the policies and a complaint is filed, a judicial board conducts a hearing and sanctions the organization.

The university defines hazing as: An act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or that destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of intimidation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. Participation or cooperation by the person(s) being hazed does not excuse the violation. Failing to intervene, to prevent, to discourage, and/or failing to report those acts may also constitute hazing. For more information regarding university discipline procedures, visit: www.uni.edu/policies/302.  In addition to university sanctions, a person who commits an act of hazing may be subject to criminal charges under section 708.10 of the State Code of Iowa. 

All students will sign that they understand this policy when they sign their membership card with the Office of Student Involvement for the chapter that they join. The students will also receive a copy of this policy. Hazing may be reported on campus to the Office of Student Involvement, the Office of the Dean of Students, or UNI Public Safety and anonymously by calling 1-888-NOT-HAZE.

For Parents & Families

How can I learn more as a parent or family member?

We highly encourage you to check out the Family & Friends section of TheSororityLife.com. This website covers how can you support your student, what the benefits are for your student, and much more!

What does my student have to gain from joining a fraternity or sorority?
There are so many opportunities available, with many extra resources devoted to affiliated students than non-affiliated. There are workshops about personal and professional development, mental health resources, personal safety and self-defense trainings, etc. Many members also enjoy the benefits of adding their fraternity or sorority accomplishments to their resume and find connections easily with affiliated recruiters from any chapter. The experience of leading, collaborating, and growing in a group with so many other young women and men is incredibly empowering. The friendships and sisterhood/brotherhood last a lifetime, as do the benefits of membership. There are so many leadership opportunities in every chapter, in fields ranging from finance, human resources, recruiting, facility management, graphic design, PR and Marketing, academics, philanthropy, etc. The opportunities are endless when you let yourself dive in and try new things!

What can I do as a parent or family member?

As your student considers fraternity or sorority life:

  • Learn as much as you can about the fraternities or sororities, including the national organizations governing those organizations.
  • Ask questions about what the organizations will offer your student. Fraternities and sororities recognized by different schools may take different approaches. Allow your student to choose a group with whom they feel most comfortable.
  • Discuss the financial obligations with your student. Joining a fraternity or sorority provides lifetime membership, and there will be obligations both financially and personally.

​As your student experiences fraternity or sorority life:

  • Keep an open mind. Your college experience may be different than your student's.
  • Participate in chapter events designed for parents. These events provide you the opportunity to participate in events and activities.
  • Some chapters have organizations for parents to join, such a parents association, a mom's club, or a dad's club. This is a great way to meet the parents and families of other chapter members, while providing support and resources to the chapter.
How does recruitment work?

FOR WOMEN - Recruitment is the process all women interested in joining an NPC sorority must participate in. There are two different types of recruitment – primary and secondary. During primary recruitment, students will have the chance to meet all the organizations on campus and decide which sorority is the best fit for her. Secondary recruitment, or continuous open bidding (COB), is a little different because not every organization will always participate. When they do participate they will typically announce it on social media and the events are typically more informal.

FOR MEN - The Fraternity Recruitment Week allows men to meet current fraternity men from each chapter. It's an organized week of informal chapter events. At any point in the school year, chapters are seeking men who align with their chapter's values and ideals. They will host informal recruitment events, and interested men are also encouraged to reach to a chapters.

How do I support my student through recruitment?

So, your student has decided to participate in sorority recruitment and you probably have a lot of questions. This can be a huge step and we want you to be a part of it. Throughout recruitment, she will probably call you to digest her confusion, sadness, excitement and anything else she might feel. How do you support her, especially if you aren’t familiar with sorority? Keep reading to find out. 

1. Be apart of the process with them

Research the organizations on her campus with them, discuss their values, philanthropies, missions, etc. If you do the preliminary research with them you will be ready to support them during recruitment. Help them decide what they wants out of a fraternity or sorority experience. You can also review common terminology together. This will help them be prepared and confident when recruitment starts. You can also discuss with them what they wants out of fraternity or sorority membership. During recruitment, this will guide their decisions and make their choices a little easier. 

2. Listen to them

Sorority or fraternity recruitment is a unique experience due to the long days, meeting a lot of new people and opening up to them quickly. Your student going through recruitment is going to need to process what they are experiencing. During Sorority Primary Recruitment, there are trained women, called recruitment guides or Rho Gammas, who can help your student work through her feelings. Even with that support, they may be more comfortable talking to you. The most important thing to do is listen to them. They will need you to lean on during this time. 

3. Connect with other fraternity or sorority members

Look into connecting with sorority women or fraternity men who have been through this experience. Try posting on social media and utilizing the contacts you have. Many Greek members would be willing to speak with potential members and offer advice. They can also answer questions and provide information about the experience. Your student can also connect with these individuals during recruitment when they needs someone to talk to. 

4. Support their decisions

If you are familiar with fraternities or sororities, perhaps you or a family member are a member, you have probably heard of legacies. Many family members want their students to join their organization so they can share in that experience, but the truth is this process is about them and what they want. They will be happier in the organization they want to join and not the one they feels they have to join. Let them know that you support them in whatever organization they join because it isn’t about the letters they wears, but being a sorority woman or fraternity man. 

What are the requirements for joining?

Each fraternity and sorority on campus sets their own requirements to join their organization. However, there are requirements that all chapters have. For example, you must be an undergraduate student seeking a bachelor’s degree to participate in recruitment. Member organizations will set more specific requirements, such as GPA, though students can register for recruitment no matter their GPA.

Will my students high school GPA affect her chances of joining a sorority?

Member organizations do set GPA requirements for membership. Learn more about how GPA affects sorority recruitment.

Will joining a fraternity or sorority affect my student's grades?

Every chapter prioritizes the academic success of its members. All fraternities sororities have GPA requirements and incorporate study groups or other academic programs to ensure members are staying focused on coursework. Many chapters offer scholarships to support the academic success of their members as well.

Will my student be supported?

Each chapter has alumni/ae advisors that oversee various parts of chapter operations. All chapter advisors are there to support chapter members and be a resource. In addition, the University of Northern Iowa has professional staff members that works on campus. They are trained in various areas to be a resource for the fraternal community. They provide guidance for chapter programming, personal development and more.

Is it safe?

Our campus has made safety a priority. Member organizations have committed to positively influencing the physical and mental health behaviors of their members. Sorority sisters and fraternity brothers strive to keep one another safe by hosting educational programs and supporting one another. Our campus also requires alcohol education and bystander intervention training, Red Watch Band, for all fraternity and sorority members.

How much does it cost?

There is a cost associated with being in a sorority and members are held accountable for meeting their financial obligations. Though the costs will differ between chapters, most costs are split up over an academic term and chapter treasurers will work to create payment plans if needed. The cost for each organization should be discussed during the recruitment process by the member organizations and the councils on campus.

Glossary of Greek Terms

Active Member - an initiated member of a sorority

Alumnus/Alumna - a member that has graduated from his/her chapter

Bid - an invitation to membership in a chapter

Brother - Fraternity men may refer to each other as "Brother"

Chapter - the local collegiate group of an inter/national sorority or fraternity

Colony - a group of students who have started a new fraternity or sorority

Greek - a term applied to members affiliated with a Greek-letters organization

IFC - Interfraternity Council, governing body of fraternities at UNI

Initiation - the ceremony in which a new member becomes an active member

Legacy - a potential new member whose mother, sister, or grandmother (for women) or father, brother, or grandfather (for men) is an alumnae or initiated member of a fraternity or sorority.

NIC - North American Interfraternity Conference, body of 66 inter/national men's fraternities (There are 5 at UNI)

NPC - National Panhellenic Conference, body of delegates from the 26 national sororities (There are 5 at UNI)

New Member - a member of a sorority who is not yet initiated

Panhellenic - the governing council of sororities at UNI

Philanthropy - charitable project to raise money and awareness for a particular cause sponsored by a chapter

Potential New Member (PNM) - A non-Greek undergraduate student who participates in the recruitment process

Quota - number of women a sorority may offer bids to during formal recruitment

Recruitment - Social experience organized by the Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils in which mutual selection allows each potential member to determine chapter membership

Recruitment Guest - an undergraduate woman who is taking part in the recruitment process

Ritual - the expression of values and principles upon which the sorority was founded

Sister - Sorority women may refer to each other as "Sister"

Sorority - a Greek-letter sisterhood

Fraternity FAQ's

What will I get from Fraternity life that I would not get from any other student organization?

At UNI, we take great pride in all that fraternity membership has to offer. Greek membership provides students the chance to enhance their college experience. Unlike other student organizations, fraternities are values-based organizations and expect their members to uphold the values established by their founders. Joining a fraternity will allow students to develop leadership skills, achieve academically, and make a difference through philanthropic or hands-on service. Membership offers a sense of belonging and provides students with a home away from home.

What if I have general questions about Fraternity and Sorority Life?

Visit the FSL FAQs webpage for more information. 

Benefits of Fraternity Life

Our community strives to make every member a more empowered individual. All Greek organizations have the following four values in common:

Scholarship

  • Study tables/hours programs
  • Scholarship opportunities and academic support system

Leadership 

  • Many leadership opportunities with the chapters
  • Fraternity members are frequently represented on NISG
  • CATS, SAA, RHA, Hall Senates all have Fraternity presence and/or leaders

Brotherhood

  • Family on campus with immediate social support
  • Networking opportunities both within each chapter and the overall Greek community
  • Life-long friendships
  • Support of national organization and alumni 

Service

  • Over 4,000 hours volunteered
  • Each chapter hosts annual philanthropy
  • Every member participates in other chapter/campus philanthropies in large numbers

Sorority FAQs

Membership Expectations

What are the requirements for joining a sorority?

Each sorority will have different requirements. All have a minimum GPA you will need to maintain upon joining, and for majority of chapters, Potential New Members looking to join should have either a 3.00 High School GPA or a 2.60 College GPA, depending on when you are looking to join.

Will sorority membership affect my grades?

YES! All chapters emphasize high academic standards. There is recognition 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?

Most chapters have a one year live-in policy, however, not all women get the opportunity to live in a chapter house. This would be a great question to ask each chapter during the sorority recruitment process.


Primary Recruitment

How do I join a sorority at UNI this fall?

Panhellenic Primary Recruitment is the main way in which to join most sororities at UNI. Potential New Members, or PNMs, will have the opportunity to meet women from five sororities and determine which chapter most aligns with their values. Primary Recruitment is time period that allows for you to meet with each chapter at least once before determining which chapters you prefer, and women who fully participate have an incredibly high chance of receiving a bid to membership from one of the sororities.

To participate, you must register for Panhellenic Primary Recruitment at https://enroll.icsrecruiter.com/pan/unoni. If it is after Primary Recruitment, you can join through Continuous Open Bidding!

When is Panhellenic Primary Recruitment?

For Primary Recruitment, individuals who register must meet with each chapter for 15 minutes prior to 8pm on September 5th. Then, there will be one day of formal rounds on September 6th before Bid Day on September 7th. In depth details on the schedule can be found here!

How many sororities at UNI participate in sorority recruitment?

There are five NPC sororities that participate in sorority primary recruitment. All five NPC sororities are associated with national or international organizations. Their national and local websites are a great place to find more information! Learn more about the chapters at UNI.

How will recruitment work?

Before the start of recruitment, Potential New Members will go through an in-person orientation on September 9th at 5:00 pm.  This will go through what to expect, introduce you to the Panhellenic Council and the recruitment guides, explain the process, educate on the different chapters, and more!

There will be events prior to the start of recruitment, which will allow women to meet other students considering recruitment and the Recruitment Guides. Meet & Greet events will give women the chance to learn more about what it means to be a member in a sorority and what the process looks like to join. Also, women who have registered for recruitment will get to know one another through their Recruitment Group activities. 

You can find the schedule for recruitment on our Primary Recruitment website. The logistics of this new structure as well as other plans will be communicated through email to Potential New Members who have registered for recruitment. Therefore, the best way to ensure you receive updates and formal communication is by registering at https://enroll.icsrecruiter.com/pan/unoni.

Will I be safe during in-person rounds?

We want everyone to feel comfortable participating in Primary Recruitment. If women would like to wear a mask during in-person events, they should feel empowered and confident to do so. Sororities and the Panhellenic Council will be taking appropriate safety precautions and following university guidance for in-person events.

If a Potential New Member requires reasonable safety requirements in order to participate, they can indicate that when they register for Primary Recruitment at https://enroll.icsrecruiter.com/pan/unoni

What is the cost for going through Primary Recruitment?

The cost of Primary Recruitment registration has been adjusted to $15. This covers the technology fee and food provided during recruitment. 

What does it mean if a chapter or chapter member follows me on social media?

This means that they have noticed you plan on attending the University of Northern Iowa this fall, and they are hoping you will register for Primary Recruitment! You are welcome and encouraged to follow them, DM them with questions, etc! We also encourage you to follow @UNIFSL and @unisororityrecruitment Instagram to ensure you are up to date with new information! If a chapter or member follows you, it doesn’t mean you are guaranteed a bid to that chapter, or anything like that! It simply means you are on their radar, and they want to get to know you! If you ever feel uncomfortable regarding contact with a chapter or chapter member, please email sororitylife@uni.edu with questions and concerns!

Should I make my social media private? Or public?

Do whatever you feel best about! If you have already had it on one setting, don’t let recruitment be the reason you change that. Chapters will never use your social media to weigh decisions about your potential membership. A good rule to follow, is that if you wouldn’t let your grandparent or boss see it, don’t have it on your social media. However, it can be a fun way to show off your personality, style, and values! We know that with the world we live in today, it is super easy to connect with and learn about chapters and their members through social media!

If a sorority contacts me over the summer, am I allowed to talk to them?

Yes. Sororities will be actively promoting the overall sorority experience and membership opportunities. Outreach and education materials to potential new members and caregivers should reflect the Positive Panhellenic Contact (2003) – POLICY and share accurate information about the current state of sorority on campuses.

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.

What does “maximizing your options” mean?

When someone tells you to “maximize your options” they are referring to attending every single event on your schedule and selecting any chapters you have left in your pool by the end of Preference Round. This strategy ensures nearly 99% of PNMs wishing to join chapters get placed in one. It also means PNMs need to keep an open mind and avoid listening to stereotypes or rumors about chapters, and get a feel for each one in an unbiased way.

What are the requirements for going through Primary Sorority Recruitment?
  • Completing your registration form.
  • Paying the registration fee.
  • Meeting with each chapter at least once for at least 15 minutes prior to Preference Round.
  • 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 being yourself!
Will my high school GPA or 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. If you do not meet the minimum GPA requirements, 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. 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.

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 sororitylife@uni.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 try to work it out! Remember that chapters really want as many chances as they can to get to know you, so attending all rounds is ideal, but if there is a family emergency or or class conflict we totally understand!

We will do our best to accommodate scheduling conflicts, such as class, university sponsored activities, and personal emergencies. We cannot guarantee accommodations can be made for work and other such conflicts. Visit the Primary Recruitment website to see specific dates and times!

Do I get to make my own schedule?

Round 1 of Primary Recruitment (Panhellenic Hosted Events and Chapter Hosted Events) happens over several days. You get to pick and choose which events you attend and which chapters you speak with! You are only required to speak to each chapter at least once for at least 15 minutes prior to preference Round.

Round 2  (Preference) happens on Saturday, and each woman will get their own personalized schedule. Again, if you have conflicts, your schedule can be adjusted to your needs, but keep in mind this round happens over one day, so we are only able to adjust based on the schedule of recruitment. Please try your best to keep Sept. 6th available for Primary Recruitment!

My parents aren’t so sure I should go through recruitment, what do I say?

Great question! We recognize that there are tons of questions and concerns parents may have, so you can direct them to the Frequently Asked Questions page or the Family & Friends section at TheSororityLife.com.

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 first year student? Can I join as a second, 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!

When do we find out who our Recruitment Guide, or Rho Gamma, is?

You will find out who your Recruitment Guide is around the first week of classes or once you register if it is after that point! She will provide you with important information on what to expect and will help you connect with other women going through recruitment. Your Recruitment Guide can serve as an excellent resource and listening ear for you as you go through the process.

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 Sorority Life Meet & Greet events AND your 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!

What should I talk about during sorority recruitment?

The most important thing to remember is: 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?
What should I do if I have questions or feel uncomfortable?

First and foremost, it is natural to have questions and to feel uneasy during recruitment. If you have questions or concerns you can talk with any of the Rho Gammas, the Recruitment Team, or the Panhellenic Advisor. We're here for you day and night. We all want you to have the best experience possible.

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 @UNIFSL or email sororitylife@uni.edu with any questions that may arise. Once you are registered for recruitment, you can contact your Recruitment Guide (once assigned) about any of your questions or concerns, or reach out to any member of the Panhellenic Recruitment Team.

What is the refund policy?

You may cancel your registration for a full refund until noon on  August 26. Go to the Registration webpage for more information. You may choose not to participate in recruitment after this date; however, refunds may not be granted.

What do I wear during Sorority Primary Recruitment?

The most important thing about sorority recruitment is to be yourself! Dress and be comfortable in what you're wearing.

Panhellenic and Chapter Hosted Events: A nice t-shirt and casual bottoms; skirt, shorts, jeans, etc. 

Preference: Summer wedding or important ceremony attire! This is the most formal day of recruitment. You should consider wearing a dress, blouse and skirt or slacks. Comfortable shoes are a must, so consider flats or sandals! If you choose to wear heels, please bring sandals or flats to wear between events. 

Bid Day: Casual jeans, shorts or skirt and shirt/tank top! *You will be given a Bid Day shirt so you may want to wear a tank top underneath.

Where can I find more information?

We recommend checking out TheSororityLife.com as it has great information for those that aren't familiar with Sorority Life and for those seeking even more information.

You can also DM us on Instagram at any point with your questions or contact the Recruitment Team at sororitylife@uni.edu.

What are tips for going through Primary Recruitment?

“A girl should be two things: who and what she wants.” – Coco Chanel

You are coming into college and the world is your oyster. During recruitment, you are going to meet many people and learn a lot about others and yourself. It is important before the first meeting that you do some self-reflection, ask yourself who am I and what do I want out of my sorority experience. Write both of those questions and answers down on a sticky note that you can stare at before each sorority meeting or interaction. This will keep you grounded during your sorority recruitment experience.

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde

You are beautiful, unique and special; a sorority should only add to that. Being authentic will help you feel a connection in the right chapter. Remember, you want a place where you can be your best – and worst – self and still be loved. The chapter wants to provide you that as well. If you, as a potential member and the chapter are authentic, then you will know when you find the right chapter.

“There’s no place like home.” – Dorothy, “The Wizard of Oz”

A chapter should feel like home, but home is not a place; it is a feeling of safety and support. It is where you can learn and grow and where you have a family, so follow your gut. Where did you feel connections? Where do your values line up with the others you met? Where do you feel accepted, understood and wanted? Chances are the chapter where you feel those connections, is where you will thrive and grow as a person.

“You see how picky I am about my shoes, and those only go on my feet.” – Cher, “Clueless” 

Remember, there is nothing wrong with having personal opinions and thoughts of what is important to you in your sorority experience. These thoughts and feelings are your own. Do not let others’ thoughts, values or expectations alter what is important to you. And do not let your needs and wants influence what other potential members around you are thinking. During recruitment, you hear a lot about not talking to others about your thoughts on all the chapters on campus. This is because no one wants to sway you into a lifelong decision that you end up not making for yourself. You choose your happiness, so ultimately you should choose your chapter!

“Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming.” – Dory, “Finding Nemo”

Remember that this might be a bit overwhelming for you. To keep track of your experiences with each chapter, take notes. Start a reflection journal where you write what you want in your sorority experience but also your thoughts and feelings after each chapter you meet. This way, you can look back and reflect before each selection. Also, use your resources like recruitment counselors if you are feeling overwhelmed. Although you may not be able to talk chapter specifics with your recruitment counselor, you can decompress by checking in. Give yourself the grace to breathe and feel this process. Everyone is going to have a different and unique experience, and each experience is correct because it’s your journey.

Lastly, remember that the sorority experience is about finding community, gaining friends and mentors that will walk beside you both in college and the future. Though the process itself may be new, in the wise words of Carrie Bradshaw, “They say nothing lasts forever; dreams change, trends come and go. But friendships never go out of style.” These tips and more can be found on TheSororityLife.com


Continuous Open Bidding

What is Continuous Open Bidding (COB)?

This is an informal process that sororities use to take in new members after the conclusion of Primary Sorority Recruitment. When a sorority holds a recruitment event in either the fall and spring semester, they simply contact a potential new member on their own or you may contact the chapter currently recruiting. Chapters host a series of informal events in order to get to know you better, and this can look different in each chapter. Some chapters might go to dinner with a potential member or some chapters might host a 'craft night' and invite potential members to attend. The chapters participating in Continuous Open Bidding is different each semester.

When does COB occur?

COB begins after the conclusion of Primary Recruitment continues throughout the semester until all vacancies are filled in a chapter. So this could mean majority of the fall semester and all of the spring semester.

How do I know if I am eligible?

You are eligible to participate in COB if you are currently enrolled at UNI and have not accepted or declined a bid from a Panhellenic chapter within the calendar year. 

Are there any current openings/chapters in the COB process?

Chapters participating in COB are listed on the Continuous Open Bidding webpage. Typically, one to three chapters will participate in COB each semester. Chapters have the choice to not participate in COB, even if they have space available. 

How do I sign up for COB?

You do not need to sign up for COB, but you can fill out the Sorority Life Interest Form here, and we can help connect you to chapters. No registration is required, you can simply reach out to the chapters you are interested in joining.

When will a chapter contact me?

Chapters will contact you on their own time basis. Please remember that these women conducting recruitment for their chapters are also college students, so every chapter’s schedule is different. You are also welcome to reach out to the chapters and take initiative by attending their informal chapter events.

Can I reach out to a chapter to personally express interest?

Yes, contact information for each chapter’s recruitment chair can be found here. 

What do COB recruitment events look like?

COB recruitment events are by invitation from participating chapters and are typically informal. They can range from being invited to a chapter’s recruitment event to a coffee date.

The chapter is asking for me to verify my high school/college GPA - is this normal?

Chapters will have you verify your high school/college GPA to ensure you meet their minimum academic standards. Each chapter has individual standards, so be sure to discuss academic expectations during the COB process.