It’s no secret that Boston College doesn’t have a formal system of fraternities and sororities. At first, this can seem like a bummer to those of us who imagined eternally sporting Greek letters on our mugs and sweatshirts. However, as a BC freshman, I’ve already noticed some genuine silver linings from not having Greek life:

1. No Recruitment, No Worries

Every friend I’ve spoken to at schools with big Greek life is in a flurry of stress over their clothes, shoes, etc. for rush in their first week of college. For us baby eagles and thus non-rushers, all we have to worry about is getting to class and becoming personally comfortable in this new environment.

2. Focus on Self-Identity

The first year of college is a definitive time in our lives. We begin to realize who we are and who we want to become, and avoiding assimilation into a sorority or fraternity can assist us on this journey. College is a sort of limbo between childhood and the real world, so figuring out our values and realizing our genuine goals now is essential to crafting the kind of life we want to lead once we leave these hallowed dorm halls.

3. Out of the Comfort Zone, Into…

Without an automatic group of people to be welcomed into, we are forced to explore what we’re truly interested in and this is a good thing. We feel more encouraged to join that awesome baking club we never tried in high school or to write for an organization like Odyssey!

4. Constant State of Change

We non-frat stars aren’t attending the same social scene every weekend. We’re on a search for new things to do and, in the process, meeting new people. In fact, it’s typically the kind of nights that have empty agendas that result in the best times (or if not, some quality mozzarella sticks at Late Night).

5. Mo' Money, Less Problems

Being a college student in its own right requires a hefty price to pay. No option to join Greek life means you can spend more of your tiny budget on other fun things like online shopping sprees or trips into the city! I think I hear Newbury Street calling my name??

6. Unity with Our Peers

Rather than being a Pi-Phi or a Chi-O, each one of us is an Eagle. There is no division from our peers, and we all cheer on our fellow Eagles in all that we do!

So if you’re blue because you don’t have the option of adding those iconic Greek letters to your life, think instead about how fortunate you are to be completely open to your college environment. Try something new, and genuinely enjoy discovering who you are in the process!