A couple weeks ago, I received an email from a random reader asking what was fraternity pledging actually like. At first, I was hesitant to answer that question because I could not figure out a way to deliver an answer that did not give anything away. Fast forward about two to three weeks and here we are.

I will now tell all my readers what fraternity pledging is actually like. If you are looking for any fraternity secrets or rituals, this is not the article you are looking for.

Pledging can be compared to taking another college level class. You have to be willing to put in the time and effort in order to get the most out of your pledging experience. At times, you will have the utmost of fun. At other times, you will question why you are doing what you are currently doing. Just know that everything you are doing during pledging has a reason behind it, whether it is good or bad. This is why pledging is not meant for the faint of heart, it weeds out the people that won't be able to handle it. Not everyone that pledges a fraternity will be initiated. Keep that in mind.

There are some common themes in fraternity pledging. One common theme is that your pledge brothers, regardless of getting initiated or not, will be the closest people around you. I suggest getting to know your pledge brothers well, because brotherhood starts at the bottom, and works its way to the top.

Another common theme is the things you learn during pledging. Some things will include the Greek alphabet, your fraternity's history and culture, or even just simple life lessons, like how to tie a tie. You learn a lot during your pledging experience, and those lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

Now that you know what pledging may or may not contain, here are some tips you may want to remember:

Always put forth your best effort in anything you do pledging related. This shows initiative and dedication.

Make sure you have a button down shirt, a tie, and a jacket. It's pretty safe to assume you are going to be needing these.

Be prepared for the unexpected.

Get to know your pledge brothers sooner, rather than later.

Get to know the active brothers and alumni sooner, rather than later.

Almost everything you are going to be doing during your pledging process has a reason behind it, just go along with it.

Have fun!

For those that decide to go down this path, I wish you good luck!