FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

What are the advantages of becoming affiliated with a fraternity or sorority?

Brotherhood and sisterhood is a unique benefit of fraternity and sorority life. Fraternities and sororities enable students to meet many people through social events, service projects, recruitment, and intramural events. In addition, the values of fraternity and sorority life include scholarship, leadership, service, brotherhood/sisterhood, and personal growth and development. Membership in a fraternity or sorority is a lifelong commitment; relationships created during college last well beyond graduation.

How much time is required to be a member?

Participating in any worthwhile activity always requires a time investment. Although time requirements vary from chapter to chapter, students will get out of their fraternity or sorority experience what they are willing to put into the experience. During a student’s first semester of membership they will attend a variety of activities to meet other chapter members, learn about the organization's history and values, and continue to develop leadership skills. Additionally, each chapter has a weekly chapter meeting, community service projects, educational programs, and other events that members are expected to attend. These events are planned in advance to allow members time for studying, involvement in other organizations, work, and other activities. A student can be as involved as they choose to be; in our experience, the students that are most active and involved are usually the ones most satisfied with their decision to join a fraternity or sorority.

Will fraternity or sorority membership interfere with my son or daughter's academic life?

The Greek community realizes the importance of a quality education therefore academic excellence is a priority. All fraternity and sorority members are expected to fulfill their academic potential. At Millikin University, our fraternity and sorority averages are both above the all men's and all women's campus averages. Academic standards have been established by each organization and resources are available for students who do not meet these standards such as scholarship programs, study sessions, mid semester grade reports, study partners, and incentives.

How much does it cost to be a member of a fraternity or sorority?

Membership in a fraternity or sorority does carry a financial commitment. Each chapter is self supporting through dues paid by all members each semester; dues cover insurance, inter/national fees, chapter operating expenses, and social functions. Financial obligations will vary from chapter to chapter so encourage your son or daughter to ask questions during the recruitment processes about the financial commitments associated with each chapter. There may be payment plans available for students.

Can I be assured my son or daughter will be safe in the fraternity and sorority community?

Millikin University is dedicated to promoting a safe and healthy campus environment for all students. In addition, Millikin is committed to promoting an environment that fosters respect for the dignity and rights of all its community members. As such, the University will not tolerate hazing activities by any individuals, groups, teams, or registered student organizations. All chapters are expected to uphold all federal, state and local laws and university policies.

Why are there some things fraternity and sorority members can not talk about?

It is understandable that you as parents might be concerned if you hear that some of the things that go on during your son or daughter’s initiation are to be kept secret. Initiation into a fraternity or sorority is an exciting, yet serious, ceremony that conveys the purposes and special values of the respective fraternity or sorority. These ceremonies often are referred to as rituals. Chapters pride themselves on the rituals that their fraternity or sorority was founded upon. These rituals are full of the traditions and values that make the chapters unique. However, these rituals should not be confused with hazing or other inappropriate activities. Fraternity and sorority initiation ceremonies are, in most cases, single day events. If your student is not permitted to talk to you for extended periods of time, hazing may be an issue, and you should contact the Office of Inclusion and Student Engagement at 217-424-6335.

Who is in charge of each fraternity or sorority?

Each chapter is governed by a council or committee of undergraduate officers (i.e. president, vice president, treasurer, committee chairs, etc.). These members give the organization direction, plan events, and help to formulate organizational goals. Outside guidance generally comes from three sources: fraternity and sorority headquarters, local area volunteers, and the university. Fraternity and sorority headquarters employ paid professional staff who provide educational resources, guidance and ensure members are upholding the standards and expectations of the organization. The headquarters also recruit regional or local alumni volunteers to advise chapters in all aspects of chapter operations. Millikin University employs full time professional staff members in the Office of Inclusion and Student Engagement to advise, mentor, and provide guidance and programming for personal and organizational development.

What is my role as a parent?

Take the time to find out more about the fraternity and sorority community at Millikin University. Ask questions about what the organizations will offer your child and allow them to make the best decision for themselves. Once your child chooses to join a chapter, there will be opportunities for parent’s weekend activities and visiting chapter events. Take the time to talk to your child about fraternity and sorority life and their chapter.