So you’re thinking about going Greek? Well, the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa is expanding their Greek life! We have 2 fraternities and 3 sororities on campus. For fraternities we have the gentlemen of Kappa Sigma and Tau Kappa Epsilon. And for our sororities we have the lovely ladies of Beta Beta Gamma, Phi Mu and Alpha Gamma Delta.

Choosing to go Greek was one of the biggest steps of my life! I was nervous, happy and excited, all at the same time! But once I got that bid day card! My life changed for the better.

Here are nine reasons why you should go Greek this Fall!

1. Finding instant connections

With thousands of students on campus it’s hard to find your group. We have so many students that it can be a process to find that right group of friends. The Greek community will be there to welcome you into an organization on campus, becoming a home away from home. Go out on an adventure or hangout with your Greek “brothers” and “sisters.” We are a very close community since we are so small! So get out there and meet new people, I guarantee you wont be lonely for long!

2. We don't bite

Some of nicest people you will ever meet are part of Greek organizations! Despite what many people think, we are smart, funny, caring and will always be there for each other, no matter what. If that doesn’t change your mind about Greek life, then be sure to stop by during one of the tables during recruitment week. We’ll be more than glad to talk to you. Who knows? You might just find that we have many things in common with you!

3. Community service is key for us!

Each fraternity and sorority has his or her own philanthropy, where they raise money for a community organization. Kappa Sigma works with the Wounded Warrior Project; Tau Kappa Epsilon works with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Beta Beta Gamma works with Hawaii’s Bella Project; Phi Mu’s works with Children’s Miracle Network Hospital; and Alpha Gamma Delta works with the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. We all come together to participate in the annual American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life every spring semester! And that is just The Greek community is always looking for a way to serve the community.

4. It's your college years

It’s your right to live up your college years! After all we are young and love to have fun. But we are not all about “partying.” I think it’s a big misconception that Greeks just party! We take our academics very seriously! But joining Greek life has made me step out of my comfort zone, and really embrace having a ton of friends! All I can say is I’m never bored on the weekend!

5. You have all these connections

Joining any Greek organization you have connections wherever there are other chapters. I found that out quick once I joined Phi Mu. We have chapters all over the United States! And it doesn’t just go for Phi Mu! Our other fraternities and sororities have chapters across the U.S as well! We can reach out to chapters if we are in a state and we need a friend to hangout with or say you just moved to a new state and are looking for a job! “Brothers and sisters” can help with that! We are honestly there to help one another grow and learn!

6. Academics = some serious business

Each Sorority and Fraternity has a certain GPA requirement. It’s kind of like sports! We have to keep this GPA in order for us to remain in the organization. So many of us are very smart! Say your struggling, like all college students do. Each organization helps in a certain way! For most we have study hours available. This is where you have a set time in a room away from all other distractions, such as your comfy bed etc. to get down and STUDY!

7. Leadership

Are you looking for a leadership opportunity to help with that resume! Well look no further than a Greek organization! Not only do we have executive positions available but the opportunities that you gain out of holding one of these positions is an experience of a lifetime! Some organizations send their officers to other states for leadership training. Being a leader is an awesome way to make new friends and bonding with each member of the chapter and getting to know them! So take the chance it boosts skill levels beyond any measure.

8. Endless support and finding your second family

Coming into the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa I was very alone. I had a friend group that was awesome! They made my first year and a half here so much fun! But what I was lacking was finding those friends that have tons in common with you! Joining Greek life put my life into perspective on the amount of friends are limitless! I have gained not only sisters but brothers as well! These people are like my second family! We go out to dinner, share our secrets and overall have a good time! Joining Greek life made me less homesick because I knew those friends would be with me till the end.

9. A memory that will last a lifetime

Greek life might seem overwhelming at first but it leaves you with a lifetime of memories and lifelong friends. It’s a chance to get you out of your room and get involved, ultimately giving you so much more confidence in yourself than you ever knew you had. So visit one of our tables around campus center to learn more about Greek life!