Question 1

What is Panhellenic (Sorority) Recruitment?

Accepted Answer

Panhellenic (Sorority) Recruitment is a process where college women meet members of various sororities to learn about their values, activities, and sisterhood. It’s a mutual selection process — potential new members (PNMs) rank their preferences, and sororities do the same.

Question 2

What is Continuous Open Bidding?

Accepted Answer

Continuous Open Recruitment is the process by which sororities that have vacancies  in their quota or total are able to introduce themselves to potential members. This process is less formal than Formal Recruitment and many students prefer this style of deciding if sorority life is for them.

Participating chapters will hold individual events and invite potential members to visit with their chapter members in activities in a small-group or one-on-one setting; this might include a coffee date at Turtle Rock Café, Book and Bean, or the Wyoming Union, taking a walk around Prexy's Pasture, or browsing in downtown Laramie. Potential members do not have to visit all participating chapters and there is no obligation to join. It can be a fun, low-pressure way to discover what Greek Life is about at the University of Wyoming!

Question 3

Why should my student consider joining a sorority?

Accepted Answer

Sororities offer:
- Lifelong friendships and a supportive community
- Leadership and networking opportunities
- Philanthropy and service involvement
- Academic support and resources
- A sense of belonging on campus

Question 4

Is there a financial commitment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Membership involves dues and fees, which vary by chapter. These cover things like social events, apparel, national dues, and housing. All sororities are transparent about costs and most offer payment plans or financial aid.

Question 5

Does my student have to live in the sorority house?

Accepted Answer

Most chapters require members to live in the house for a number of semesters, but you should ask chapters about their standard. Living in can be cost-effective and a great bonding experience.

Question 6

Is joining a sorority like what we see in movies?

Accepted Answer

No. Today’s sororities prioritize leadership, academics, service, and inclusivity. While social events are part of the experience, they’re balanced with responsibilities and values-based programming.

Question 7

What about academics? Will it distract from school?

Accepted Answer

Sororities actually support academic success. Many have GPA requirements, study hours, and academic mentoring. Members often excel due to built-in accountability and peer support. The all sorority GPA is actually higher than the all-women’s campus GPA.

Question 8

What if my student doesn’t get into a sorority?

Accepted Answer

If a PNM maximizes her options during the recruitment process, she will be matched with a chapter and offered a bid. If a PNM does not receive a bid during Formal Recruitment, she may choose to participate in Informal Recruitment. There are many paths to involvement on campus — and many students go through Informal Recruitment or join later. The experience is never wasted.

Question 9

Are sororities inclusive?

Accepted Answer

Sororities have made significant strides in creating inclusive environments. Most have diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and welcome members from all backgrounds. That said, every chapter is different — it’s important that your student finds a place that aligns with their values.

Question 10

How can I support my student during recruitment?

Accepted Answer

- Encourage them to keep an open mind
- Remind them that it's a two-way process
- Support their decisions, even if they don’t align with your expectations
- Stay informed, but let them lead the experience

Question 11

Who oversees sororities on campus?

Accepted Answer

Most sororities are part of the College Panhellenic Council, which works with the university’s Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life to provide structure, fairness, and accountability. National headquarters also oversee each chapter’s operations and conduct. Additionally, each NPC chapter house employs a "house mom" who supports members and house operations.

Question 12

Can my student still be involved on campus when joining a sorority?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Sororities are just one of many ways to get involved. There are clubs, honor societies, student government, cultural organizations, and more. Most chapters have members involved in 2+ clubs outside of the chapter.

Question 13

What if my student changes their mind after joining?

Accepted Answer

Students can choose to resign their membership if it no longer feels like the right fit. Each sorority has its own resignation process, and it’s best to speak with the chapter’s leadership or campus advisor. Your student can still stay involved on campus in other ways.

Question 14

How are sororities held accountable for safety and behavior?

Accepted Answer

Chapters must follow university policies, national organization guidelines, and often state laws. UW has the Fraternity & Sorority Life Office and a conduct process. Risk management training, alcohol-free events, and peer accountability are common practices.

Question 15

Can my student still work while in a sorority?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many members balance work, academics, and sorority life. Time commitment varies by chapter and position, but most are understanding and supportive of students who work. It’s all about communication and time management.