Almost everybody has seen the TikToks: a hundred or more college girls doing a dance in unison, wearing matching outfits and smiling like they’ve just received the best news of their lives. To me, these sorority ‘rush’ videos are at the extreme end of a wide spectrum of college greek life seriousness. I think if you’re attending a college and looking to make friends, rushing can be a great way to meet people- even if you do have to pay.
Not every rush has to be the grand SEC style; you don’t need a whole new wardrobe, and you certainly don’t need a “rush coach,” whatever that is. Almost every college offers the Greek life experience, and the whole idea behind it is that you’re matched with people who are similar to you. In my opinion, what creates such a negative culture around rushing is the hyperfixation on getting into one sorority or fraternity, instead of accepting that you will most likely be matched with people very similar to yourself.
Another aspect that seems to scare people away is the cost, which is a more valid reason not to. Per semester, costs average around $800 to participate in Greek life. And while this seems quite costly, and understandably, some can’t afford it, there are plenty of benefits to this payment. Almost every sorority, no matter how small the school, will get brand deals and free merch here and there. Also, there are parties and events that members can attend for free. Some lavish and some silly, having fun plans to look forward to would certainly motivate me to push through heavy classes and large loads of homework.
A final perk that I would recommend considering about rushing is the friends you will find. Yes, it is completely possible and easy to make lots of friends around campus. However, nothing can guarantee an instant connection like Greek life. Being involved can go from eating an occasional free meal at the house to even living in it with your sisters or brothers. My parents still talk about their times being involved in Greek life to this day- it’s an experience you will never forget.
So, if able, I urge you not to turn your nose up at rushing and to give it a try. You are not obligated to stay at any point, and even if you end up dropping rush you still may find amazing friends along the way.
