I recall freshman year, going to my first fraternity party, getting to the door and being denied entrance. It was embarrassing, frustrating, and gave me an overall bad taste for that house. Now, from the other side looking in, I'd like to offer a bit of advice for how to leave a good impression with the brothers of your chosen fraternity. 

First, as cynical as it sounds, looks are very important. If you're wearing cargo shorts or crocs, you won't get in the house. Actually, you will be lucky to make it near the house. In a collegiate environment, cargo shorts are automatically associated with being a GDI. On the other hand, however, if you're dressed way too "frat", you're probably trying too hard. 

Secondly, you want to be cocky and brag, yet remain humble at the same time. Fraternity brothers want to know you. If you get in the house, you're viewed as a potential member. As a potential member, we potentially want you to join our brotherhood. While we don't want to hear stories that are obviously given way too much hype, about how you come from a wealthy family, or that you were valedictorian of your high school class, we do care to know about where you come from, what you do, and in general, who you are. 

Third, if we invite you to events, we want you to come around our house because we think you're a good fit for the house. Too often I see kids blow off events that they were invited to, which is essentially telling a house you're not interested. If you intend to rush a particular house, it is necessary to continually come around the house or events and to meet brothers.

Fourth, I'm huge on finding a house that is a good fit for you, rather than trying to find the "top house on campus." In the long scheme of things, you will enjoy your college and greek experience so much more if you're involved in a brotherhood with people who share the same ideals, likes, and dislikes as you. It is so much more important to find a brotherhood who welcomes you for who you are, rather than one who welcomes you under the false pretense of who you are. If worst comes to worst, just be yourself and find the house that you fit into best.  

When it comes down to it, just be yourself, don't try too hard, and have fun. Fraternities want to meet you just as much as you want to meet them. Just keep in mind, first impressions are a real thing, and really matter in the greek community.