More Than What You See

Taylor Weese
Theta Chi

It was almost exactly one year ago today that I was trying to decide if I was going to rush. I remember meeting with a group of upperclassmen to talk about the decision I was faced with. I didn't know a whole lot about the Greek community, but I definitely came in with some preconceptions. I explained to them how Greek life looked to me as if it was simply a means for partying. Not that I had a problem with that, but I wasn't sure if it was worth my time if all I would get out of it was a four way (social, that is).

They didn't hesitate to admit that partying was definitely a big part of Greek life. However, they attempted to shed light on some other aspects of the Greek community. One of the guys kept insisting that being in a fraternity was more than what it appeared to be on the surface. One specific line he said stuck with me. “It's so much more than what you can see,” he told me. Although I didn't believe it at the time, I realized that the only way I could ever really be sure was to find out for myself.

One year later, I am finding his words to be true. As the philanthropy chair for Theta Chi, I have been putting together the finishing touches on a philanthropic event with Gamma Phi Beta. This Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in Withrow, we will be hosting a three point shooting competition called “Nothing But Nets.”

The name of the event is derived from the cause which it supports. Nothing But Nets is a charity that gives mosquito bed nets to countries throughout Africa to help with Malaria prevention. Malaria causes 200 million illnesses per year worldwide, with one million of those resulting in death. Most of those deaths are of children under the age of five. In fact, a child in Africa dies of Malaria every 45 seconds. This is where Nothing But Nets comes in. Just a $10 donation is enough to purchase a net, and in turn, save a life. With a $10 entry free per person, we essentially save a child's life with every person that signs up. In addition, we will be accepting donations at the event, with a sign displaying the charity’s slogan. “Send a net. Save a life.” Maybe Greek life really is more than just a means for partying.

As rush once again approaches, I will be on the lookout for younger guys who may be unsure about their perception of Greek life. Whatever their concern may be, I will be certain to leave them with the wise words that a good friend once left me: It's so much more than what you can see.

Taylor is a senior studying journalism and mass communications. You may contact him at weesetc@muohio.edu.