Frequently Asked Questions:

How will being apart of Fraternity and Sorority Life benefit my student?

Joining an FSL organization can help enhance your student’s personal and professional development.  Areas where most students see the most growth include:  study skills, time management, supportive relationships, leadership positions, and opportunities for involvement. FSL organizations also have an active alumni network that can assist your student in making important professional connections.

If my student decides to go Greek, what are some helpful tips for me to know?

Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son or daughter as they meet people throughout the recruitment process. We encourage parents to inquire about organizational academic standing, finances, involvement outside the fraternity/sorority, service and philanthropic work and opportunities for leadership and personal/professional development. Also, current members will be more than happy to tell your son or daughter (and you) about their organization.  They can answer your questions or direct you to individual organization advisors or student officers that may be able to provide you with more information.

What are the views on alcohol within the Fraternity and Sorority Community?

Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with FSL ideals. All fraternities and sororities are expected to uphold state, county, and city laws, as well as university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol. In addition, fraternities and sororities are not allowed to purchase alcohol with chapter funds. The days of large quantities of alcohol at a social function are gone. Instead, you’ll find fraternity members participating in alcohol-free social activities like intramurals, philanthropy events, community service, lip syncs and educational events. Students who choose not to drink will know that it’s okay, and feel comfortable with their decision. They will be in an environment where they can experience the same brotherhood or sisterhood as students who do choose to drink.

What about hazing?

The State of Missouri, Truman State University, as well as all governing councils and individuals chapters, have a strict no hazing policy. Any chapter that violates the no hazing policy is held accountable by the University for their behavior and is subject to disciplinary actions and/or the revocation of their charter. Please click the appropriate links for more information regarding  Missouri Anti Hazing Policies  or you may visit the Truman State Code of Conduct (section 15 located on page 18).

Will being in a fraternity or sorority affect my student’s grades?

All Fraternity and Sorority Life organizations recognize the importance of academic excellence and prioritize each member’s role as a student above all of their other activities on campus. For the past several years, the Fraternity and Sorority community has had a higher overall GPA than the All-Truman community. Further, all chapters have GPA requirements and most incorporate the use of study hours/groups to help their members stay focused on their coursework. Additionally, several organizations have scholarships that are available at both the national and local level to reward academic success. For specific chapter GPA information, check out the Fraternity and Sorority Life grade report. This document is released every semester and can be found on the Fraternity and Sorority Life website under the “Our Organization” tab.

How much will it cost?

Dues range from organization to organization. The first semester is often the most expensive as one-time fees are frequently included in first semester dues. This information is provided to students going through the recruitment and intake processes so they can have that information while deciding what organization they would like to join. Average prices per council are:

  • IFC New Member dues range from $225—$500, with an average of $400
  • IFC Active Member dues range from $350—$600, averaging $450
  • Panhellenic New Member dues range from $400—$650, with an average of $460
  • Panhellenic Active Member dues range from $300—$680, averaging $350

Prices are per semester.

Will my student have to live in a Fraternity and Sorority Life house?

There are several housing options for students to explore. Many of the IFC fraternities have houses located around Kirksville. While none of the Panhellenic sororities have houses, they each rent chapter rooms in Brewer Hall (BNB). A certain number of women are also able to live on their sorority floor in Brewer which is managed by the Office of Residence Life. While most organizations do not require living in the fraternity house or chapter floor, please check with individual chapters about housing requirements.

Who is in charge of the organizations my student joins?

Every chapter has students (often Juniors and Seniors) who serve as officers as well as advisors (at least one of which is Truman State University faculty/staff ). There are FSL advisor meetings, as well as all presidents and risk managers meetings monthly, to support these officers and allow the community to share ideas and advice.

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