With boys' rush in full swing, many first years are out and about, exploring the vast community of Greek chapters at the University of Virginia. 

Recently, the University has called into question the validity of Greek organizations. And this comes with good reason after the controversies last semester. Many wonder what fraternities bring to the table and some have called for the disbandment of the whole community.

However, if I were to rush again, I would still choose to join a fraternity. Here I have compiled a few reasons to not be afraid to accept that coveted bid to one of the many great fraternities here at UVA.      

It’s not about the parties. 

Social events put on by fraternities are great and can be a lot of fun. But it isn’t all about the late night parties and get togethers that represent the beauty of a fraternity. Personally, I did not join a fraternity to party all of the time. It is about the days everyone comes to the house to play a sport outside or organize a philanthropy for a special cause. Those days are the ones when you sit back and say, “This is why I joined a fraternity.” Anyone can party here at such a big and diverse school like University of Virginia. It’s unique to organize events outside of nightlife with a large group of friends. 

The ability to make a difference.   

Joining a fraternity gives you the choice and ability to make it your own and what you want it to be. Once initiated, you have the opportunity to do as much as you want with it, or as little as possible. It is an individual choice, but the potential is high. You can turn it into something you truly love, and take pride in making a difference for a house in the community and across grounds. It is a special feeling to make improvements to your house and see the affects it has on other people because of your contributions.   

Always meeting new people.   

Becoming a part of one fraternity does not exclusively isolate you to one house. It partners you with 31 other fraternities and 15 sororities that encompass all of Greek life here at UVA. Through friends of friends of friends, the opportunity to meet new faces and acquaintances is endless. We all are together in an effort to not only enjoy our years of college here at UVA, but also leave our mark on a great university. It is always fun to meet new people in other fraternities and broaden your mind and opinions. This is also a great way to network and maybe even help with your career following college. 

Brotherhood.   

Without a doubt, the best part of joining a fraternity is the brotherhood. There is a certain pride each person takes in their house which connects each member to one another. Many people will say that members are just paying for friends when it comes to fraternities. I could not disagree more. The money goes to social and philanthropic events the house puts on. Joining a fraternity partners you with other members to form a mutual and honest friendship. It truly does lead to lifelong friendships and memories.      

A fraternity gives you so much more than parties. It gives you friendships, networking, leadership, and many more rewarding attributes. I was on edge about joining one, but I found a great fit for myself in my current fraternity, and each other member of the Greek community will tell you the same. Fraternities are not essential to college and are most certainly not the only way to have a good time or social life. But I will be forever grateful to have joined a Greek organization at UVA, and I will always look back at my time with fond and unforgettable memories.