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

Yes yes yes we do! We’ve got spirit, how about you?

Now that frosh week is over and classes are in full swing, it’s time to explore a different aspect of Carleton: life outside the classroom.  After all, how much fun can you really have when your head is buried in the books all day and night?  This fall, there are quite a few events to look forward to here on campus and it would be a shame to miss out on them.  Here’s a look into some of the events that Carleton University has to offer.

• Ravens’ games—Get in the RED ZONE!
• GO RAVENS GO RAVENS GO! Show off your ravens pride at one or more of Carleton’s varsity home games…or better yet, at a University of Ottawa home game!  If you don’t want to just watch a game, you can get involved by being a part of Carleton’s elite fan club, the Red Zone. They make it known that Carleton is the best. Upcoming home games are men’s and women’s varsity soccer on September 24^th and 25^th.  For the full varsity schedule and other information, visit www.goravens.ca.
• Annual Biology Butterfly Show
• By October, some of us may begin to suffer from summer-withdrawal already. Luckily, here at Carleton’s Nesbitt Building greenhouses, the Department of Biology hosts a free butterfly exhibit every year for our community.  This year 1,300 butterflies, representing 41 different species worldwide, are showcased for all to see. The show runs from 9am-4pm on October 1-10, 2011—only as long as a butterfly’s lifespan!  Wear something colorful and bring your camera while you enjoy one last summer-like day with beautiful butterflies. For more information, visit http://www1.carleton.ca/biology/annual-biology-butterfly-show/
• Carleton Cinema Politica
• CP is a non-profit network of groups that screen independent political films around the globe.  They believe that art has the power to educate, inspire and provoke social change.  All of their screenings are by donation only—perfect for a student’s budget.  Keep an eye out for their upcoming screening of “Tony” by the organization Invisible Children on October 12^th. This doc is based on the life of an Invisible Children ambassador. To stay updated on Carleton CP’s events you can visit their website: www.cinemapolitica.org/carleton. All are welcome!
• RUSH (Recruitment season)
• Unlike many other universities in Canada, Carleton has a prominent and diverse Greek community—meaning sorority and fraternity organizations.  The month of September is what they call ‘rush’ season. During this month they hold different events: info sessions for those interested in their organization; networking nights with actives, alumni and other organizations; and events that include campus involvement and philanthropy work.  If you think that this is something for you, feel free to contact the execs of the Carleton University Greek Council through their Facebook page for more information.

Professors, books, and assignments aren’t the only things that will make a difference in your life. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn and enjoy from your university years when you get involved on campus. Other events to look out for are CUSA’s shine auction in October for the annual Charity Ball, RRRA’s fall concert and formal in October and November respectively, and, finally, fundraising events hosted by Carleton’s Relay for Life committee. We hope to CU there!

Written by Janelle @ Carleton