What are the social benefits of membership in an IFC fraternity?
IFC fraternities provide many rich opportunities for socialization at the University, including brotherhood events, intramural sports, cultural awareness programs, and parties. In addition, IFC fraternities offer vast social networks where members can develop life-long friendships and strong support networks with other men of common interests. This social outlet can be especially important to men in their 1st and 2nd year at the University as they become acclimated to University life. Educational programs through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life and the Interfraternity Council encourage responsible behavior, especially with regard to alcohol use. Additionally, all chapters are obligated to engage in on-going educational forums on the subject of alcohol and other illegal substances.
Is membership in an IFC fraternity time-consuming?
The time commitment to a fraternity is a member’s choice, as the fraternities understand the academic challenges and respect involvement in other organizations and activities. In joining a fraternity, members can choose to give as much or as little of their time as they desire; often, the more energy and time a member dedicates to his fraternity, the more that member gains from the experience. The time commitment to a fraternity can be intensive during pledging, and many members remain highly involved for the remainder of their undergraduate career. Being involved in a fraternity does not preclude individuals from participating in other extracurricular activities, and many members are highly active in other organizations at the University including USG, SUBOG, HuskyTHON, Relay for Life, Community Assistants, Marching Band, the Cultural Centers and many more.
Will my grades suffer if I join an IFC fraternity?
One of the core purposes of fraternal organizations is scholarship, a tenet that is extremely important to our members. The average GPA of IFC fraternity men is consistently at or near the all-male average GPA, and throughout the Greek community there are numerous Babbiage and Presidential Scholars. In addition to providing members academic support, fraternities and sororities work to establish and build relations with faculty members and sponsor forums that enhance the understanding of the world in which we live.
What is the stance on hazing?
The Interfraternity Council and the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life at the University do not condone hazing in violation of the Connecticut Statute or University Regulations, defined to include physical, mental, or emotional harm. The IFC, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the individual chapters are committed to ensuring that each member’s experience with Greek life is a positive and healthy one. If you experience any forms of hazing, you are encouraged to report the activity to the IFC, the University, and local officials.
What type of housing will be available to me if I join an IFC fraternity?
Most IFC fraternity chapters at the University have housing either in the Husky Village or off campus. The cost of living in the Husky Village is actually the cheapest on campus housing on a per day basis. IFC fraternity men have the option of living in these houses after being initiated members, but this is usually not required.
What does it cost to be in an IFC fraternity?
The cost of membership in an IFC fraternity varies within each particular chapter, ranging from approximately $300 to $600 each semester. Many members pay their own dues and often, local and national scholarships are available to help members meet their specific financial obligations.
How are IFC fraternities involved in community service projects and philanthropy?
Community service and philanthropic activities are an important component of IFC fraternity life at the University. Individual fraternities are committed to improving the surrounding area and contributing to the Storrs-Mansfield community through a variety of service initiatives. Individual chapters support local and national philanthropies. Greeks also have a very high presence at the annual HuskyTHON and Relay for Life philanthropies on campus in the Spring.
