Fraternities and sororities select their members through processes that are designed to introduce potential members to the organization and its current members. Some host formal recruitment, some "rush" and other conduct intake. Recruitment/intake is the mutual selection process by which the prospective member (you) and the fraternities or sororities determine the best fit for membership. It is a mutual process where you have the opportunity to decide which chapter would be a good fit for you and where each chapter determines who they would like to invite to be a member. While all chapters strive to create better men and women, each chapter is different and unique. We encourage you to be open-minded and interact with members of multiple chapters in order to determine if Fraternity & Sorority Life is for you and which chapter is the best fit. Some other suggestions are to attend different chapters' programs and events, review chapters' websites, and attend any of the events and informational sessions listed in the next section.
While some specific organizations may have higher standards, the minimum standard requirement to participate in recruitment/intake is:
Our three councils participate in campus-wide events as well as host a general information sessions each semester for students who have questions or are unsure about the joining process.
Winthrop University is committed to the health and safety of our students. All chapters have a new member education program that consists of teaching new members the history, traditions, values, and expectations of their organization. Hazing has no place in these programs and the Office of Fraternity & Sorority Affairs works closely with each chapter and national organization to set clear expectations for new member activities through our Membership Policy. Hazing violates South Carolina State law, University policy, and all fraternity/sorority national policies. We proactively educate all new members on hazing, its definition, examples, what to do, and how to report it. If you feel that you may have insight to an incident that may be considered hazing, please contact the Assistant Director for Fraternity & Sorority Affairs or you may complete this form.
