Some common questions and answers about RUSH
Q: What is Rush?
A: Rush is the ACTIVE recruitment of new members into Greek organizations at the local chapter level. It is a process that Fraternities and Sororities use to get to know potential new members. This process makes sure that a prospective member can learn the ideals of a Fraternity or Sorority and get acquainted with individual members before he or she makes the commitment to join. Generally, RUSH will consist of some fun activities such as eating out or playing miniature golf.
Q: Why does this Chapter have rush instead of just a sign-up table?
A: We would like to get to know more about you than your name and major. RUSH allows an opportunity for many more Fraternity Members, or Brothers, to know you than would be possible with just a sign up table.
Q: I have seen on TV that RUSH may involve some--for lack of a better word--unpleasant activities. Is this true?
A: Well, those sorts of things may have gone on in the past, but today's Greek system does not tolerate any hazing or alcohol consumption during RUSH. In fact, our Fraternity has formalized this in an official policy. Sigma Pi Chapters are not permitted to Haze potential members in any way, and you are not required in drink alcoholic beverages.
"Sigma Pi Fraternity International is strongly against all illegal activities and all forms of discrimination including but not limited to (1) illegal drug use (2) illegal underage drinking (3) hazing of all kinds (4) racial discrimination and (5) sexual harassment or exploitation. Sigma Pi Fraternity International requires all of its chapters to adhere to these policies and actively monitors its chapters to enforce compliance."
Another media stereotype is that Fraternities and Sororities are made up of wealthy people of North European backgrounds. This is no longer true. Sigma Pi Fraternity does not discriminate based on your ethnic background or religion. Furthermore, chapters are encouraged to have a culturally diverse membership.
Q: If I am participate in RUSH am I obligated to join the Fraternity/Sorority?
A: No, please feel free to get to know us and enjoy our events.
Q: Isn't a Fraternity/Sorority just like a club?
A: The short answer to this question is no. Although those who have not been involved in a Greek life not realize this based on what has been portrayed in the media, parties are only a small part of Fraternity/Sorority life. Many men/women initially join a Fraternity/Sorority for its tangible benefits: networking, leadership opportunities, scholarships, and friendship. They soon realize that their Fraternity offers much more. You build lifelong relationships that cannot develop in a club. Also, you will soon find yourself with a much more diverse group than can be offered by a club.
The Sigma Pi experience is molded on ideals rather than a single common interest. The ideals of Sigma Pi, which constitute the underlying reason for the Fraternity's rise, development, and continued existence, are plainly set forth in our Constitution, and are in essence as follows:
- To establish a brotherhood.
- To establish and maintain an aristocracy of learning.
- To raise the standards of morality and develop character.
- To diffuse culture and encourage chivalry.
- To promote the spirit of civic righteousness and quicken the national conscience.
A: Yes, there is a Sigma Pi Fraternity at virtually every major college in North America. Click here for a complete list of chapters.
Q: I am kind-of shy and not exactly a party-animal. Should I consider joining Sigma Pi?
A: Yes. Sigma Pi will allow you to develop your leadership skills and become more gregarious. You will develop more self-confidence in social situations. You are the type of person who will benefit the most from Sigma Pi.