The university sororities and fraternities have opened their doors to new students intrigued by the Greek way of life.

Twenty sororities and fraternities gathered to recruit interested students at 7 p.m. on Friday in the Grand River Room of the Kirkhof Center. The Office of Student Life sponsored Meet the Greeks, an event with information about Greek life.

“Overall, we run this event to promote the entire Greek system,” said Shawn Driggers, Interfraternity Council president and vice president of external relations for Delta Upsilon. “Greek Life broadens the college experience not only socially but academically as well.”

Many of the Fraternities and Sororities have specific periods of rush, recruiting students to join. Others recruit all year. To join, a student must attend a specific chapter’s event and from there, follow the steps of membership.

“If you’re not a part of it, you’re really missing out,” said Joe Monahan, member of Sigma Phi Epsilon.

Students involved recommended joining the Greek system.

The Greek community encourages its members to participate academically and philanthropically, and the fraternities and sororities offer students a support network.

“It’s a great way to get involved with the school, and it gives you a strong sense of home,” said Chloe Beighley, Fraternity and Sorority staff assistant.

David Mortimer, a member of Sigma Pi Fraternity, said the Greek community has given him a broader world perspective.

“Greek life has opened my mind to a bigger culture I wouldn’t have found in a regular college experience,” Mortimer said. “Greek life is all about diversity.”

Fraternities and Sororities are involved in different services to give back to the community such as American Red Cross, Rock Against Rape, Relay for Life, and many others.

“It really gives you great leadership skills and helps you find your place within your community,” said Lindsey Brenz, member of Alpha Sigma Tau.

For Dan Greer, president of Sigma Phi Epsilon, Greek Life sits at the heart of the college experience.

“College is when you decide who you are, and Greek Life helps support you along the way,” Greer said.

Students can find events hosted by Greeks on campus and additional information at www.gvsu.edu/greeklife/.

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