Excitement runs high during Rush Week
At the beginning of every school year, the fraternities and sororities at Utah State University hold Rush Week for students interested in getting involved in the Greek system.
Activities are held at different locations across campus. This year’s activities range from service projects to bridge jumping, depending on the organization sponsoring the activity.
Tiffany Evans, director of student activities, said being involved in the various Greek organizations allows students to experience and meet a diverse group of students as well as learn about national service programs and get involved with local activities.
Evans said with five fraternities and four sororities on campus, students can choose which organization meets their interests.
“I would encourage all students to check it out,” she said. “It is really an opportunity for students to learn.”
Byrin Miller, a sophomore majoring in marketing and treasurer of the Psi Sigma Phi fraternity, said one of the best parts of being involved is the bonds that are made.
“You get to know everybody and get out in the community,” he said.
Duane Finley, a senior majoring in marketing and founding brother of Psi Sigma Phi, said most fraternities take guys out during Rush Week and play paintball or pool.
“The whole basis is to get to know each other, do some bonding activities and get together,” he said.
Finley said, while traditionally fraternities have stuck to fun and games during Rush Week, his fraternity is going to stick to the typical business of the organization.
“This year we decided we’re going to do some community service,” Finley said. “That’s what we’re all about.”
Mike Woodcock, a senior studying environmental studies and a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, said Rush Week is good to get involved in so that everybody can meet new people.
“Rush Week gives a chance to show people what we’re about,” Woodcock said. “A fraternity is what you want to make of it, whether it’s philanthropy and community work, or meeting new people.”
Contrary to popular belief, Greek organizations are not involved in drinking and partying, Finley said.
“There is a misconception about the Greek system that it’s all about parties,” he said.
“We do party, but that’s not our goal,” said Sachin Papithran, an alumni member of Psi Sigma Phi.
Woodcock said alcohol had been involved in Rush Week activities in the past, but would not be involved this year.
“There are actual set rules for Rush Week now,” he said.
Woodcock said no potential rushees would be allowed in the fraternity or sorority houses after 11 p.m. during Rush Week and alcohol would not be allowed in any rush activities.
Evans said any students who would like to know more about the Greek system should talk to someone they know who is involved, or contact her by phone at 797-2911 or e-mail at Tiffanye@cc.usu.edu.
A student getting involved in the Greek system would learn about a lot of opportunities which would enhance his collegiate career, Evans said.
“I would encourage students to at least check it out, go through and meet the individuals, the leaders of the fraternities and sororities as well as the other students participating in the recruitment,” she said.
Evans said an interested student could participate in Rush Week activities, and not be obligated to join a fraternity.
The activities will begin Monday night when tours of the various houses will be offered.
Woodcock said at the end of the week each individual will decide which organization is the best fit and the organizations will look for students who will best represent the fraternity or sorority to the university.
Most organizations have certain requirements that must be met for membership, like academic performance.
Finley said his fraternity requires a 2.5 GPA and, for the first time, is admitting freshmen.
“Just get out and get involved with something, fraternities and sororities are a good résumé builder,” he said.
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Casey Halaufia, a junior majoring in pre-law, paints an A-frame in preparation for Rush Week Thursday night at the Sigma Chi house. (Photo by Angelie Christensen )