Jan 18 Brothers & Sisters: Carleton’s Greek Community

Carleton can be like other universities in many ways: same old school stuff, different year. Unlike other universities though, Carleton is unique in that it has a thriving Greek community. By Greek community, I mean the strong presence of fraternities and sororities on campus. This month is recruitment season or as some may call it ‘rush’. Recruitment happens twice a year for most organizations – once in the Fall (September) and once in the Winter (January). During this period, organizations host brotherhood/sisterhood events, philanthropic events, and social events, inviting all students to attend. At the end of the designated period, which is usually 3-4 weeks, ‘bids’ or invitations are extended to new members who have displayed a keen interest in becoming a part of Carleton’s Greek life.

Rush is always exciting as it is a time when new friendships are made and fun events take place. It is a great way to meet new people, get involved and learn about Greek life on campus. Often times, students are unaware of the existence of Carleton’s Greek community and the benefits they can gain from joining an organization. The Carleton University Greek Council (CUGC) sets up tables at Carleton Expo during Orientation Week, and a ‘Greek Week’ event in the winter where each organization can promote their own recruitment. Furthermore, CUGC holds anti-hazing seminars each term, a Greek Gala at the end of the year, Women’s Day every year, and socials such as ‘Greek Speed Dating.’

Marika Washchyshyn, Vice President Communications for CUGC and member of Tau Sigma Phi says, “We have great parties with the fraternities, solid relationships with other sororities and genuine loyalty with each other.”

All in all there are seven fraternities and six sororities at Carleton. The fraternities are Acacia, Alpha Epsilon Pi, Beta Theta Pi, Kappa Sigma, Omega Psi Phi, Sigma Pi, and Tau Kappa Epsilon; the list of sororities include Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Pi Phi, Delta Psi Delta, Phi Sigma Sigma, Tau Sigma Phi, and Xi Delta Theta.

All 13 organizations are recognized by the CUGC and bounded by its constitution. Marika says, “The CUGC is body that regulates and oversees operations in the Greek Community at Carleton. They plan monthly events to promote a sense of unity among organizations, as most of the time they are competing for new recruitment, and every once in awhile, things may get sticky.”

Often times, Greeks are categorized under ‘the popular crowd’ or ‘party animal’ stereotypes, and though they may like to have a good time, Marika explains, “It is our commitment to furthering our academics and philanthropic efforts that set us apart.”

“We must maintain a minimum GPA to be a part of Tau Sigma Phi, and attend regular mandatory study sessions and learning services to achieve that. We donate many hours to different charities, and volunteer regularly on campus – as Orientation Week leaders, Carleton Serves volunteers, peer helpers and more,” she shares.

To her, being Greek is about realizing the potential you have as an individual to make a difference on campus, surrounded by an amazing support system of like-minded individuals, becoming a force together.

-Written by Janelle @ Carleton