Incoming freshmen must wait at least one
semester before being allowed to formally rush an Appalachian State
University fraternity or sorority.
The Appalachian sees this action as a chance for freshmen to educate
themselves about Greek life before making a commitment to join.
The deferred rush policy was implemented last December after a committee
of students and faculty researched other universities who currently
use the program.
Freshmen grade point averages and the waning number of students
rushing were factors examined in this decision.
Ohio State University and our sister institution Western Carolina
University, two universities researched before the decision, showed
increased numbers in students rushing after having to wait a semester.
Greek groups on campus must now focus the traditional Fall Rush
activities toward pledging returning students and breaking stereotypes
those students may have formed in previous years.
This should allow Greek organizations to better market themselves,
knowing they will not have first pick of freshmen on campus. Freshmen
will now be free to explore other clubs before making the large
commitment to Greek life.
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Initially, however, the deferred rush
policy will place a major setback on fraternities and sororities.
The money usually received from new recruits will not be available
this semester.
This will place extra monetary strains on current members for activities
such as tailgating, service projects and Homecoming.
From where will this money come now?
Hopefully service projects will not suffer due to the lack of funds,
even though the traditional tailgating may.
How big of an impact will deferred rush have on freshmen determined
to be a part of the Greek community?
The Appalachian challenges the Greek organizations to stick to this
policy and work with it. It has benefits you will reap in the future.
Don’t try to boost funds with activities such as open parties
and unofficial Greek get-togethers. Give the deferred rush mandate
a chance.
To new students, we implore you to venture to clubs and organizations
that may meet your interests and wallets. |
