Greek Life - Frequently Asked Questions

What is recruitment/RUSH?
Recruitment (RUSH) is a period of time during which interested students can learn more about the requirements, expectations, and responsibilities of joining a Greek organization. Recruitment traditionally takes place at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters and can extend throughout the term depending on the needs of each fraternity and sorority. UVa-Wise operates under a deferred recruitment system (see below for details).

What is deferred recruitment?
Greek Life at UVa-Wise operates under a deferred recruitment system. This means that all students seeking membership in fraternities or sororities must first have attended the institution for a period of at least one semester and have completed at least 12 hours on-campus. Additionally, students must meet a minimum cumulative grade point average of at least a 2.0. These are the requirements of the IGC and UVa-Wise, but individual organizations might have additional requirements which exceed these. These requirements mean that first semester freshmen students are not permitted to participate in recruitment or eligible to pledge or associate. Transfer students are permitted to participate in recruitment their first semester, provided they meet the minimum GPA requirement.   Freshman that took college classes during high school are still considered in their first semester and are ineligible to pledge or associate.

Why does UVa-Wise have a Deferred Recruitment system?
The administration at UVa-Wise encourages our freshmen to embrace the "the first year experience" in college. We believe that our students need to spend their first semester adjusting to college without having to worry about the time commitments required in joining a fraternity or sorority. As students transition into college it is important that they use their time to focus on classes, becoming adjusted to their new environment, and make decisions about what types of organizations they want to become involved with while at UVa-Wise. The deferment will allow the students to approach the recruitment process more well rounded and better prepared for the demands of joining a Greek organization.

How do I join a Greek organization?
At the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, eligible students can go through a process called RUSH that allows them to attend events sponsored by the IGC and individual organizations. At the end of the RUSH period, the organizations will extend bids to prospective new members. Upon accepting a bid to a Greek organization, students will go through a period of education and training that extends for a period of time determined by the individual organization.

What are the responsibilities for membership in a Greek organization?
The primary responsibility for a member of a Greek organization is the commitment to the principles, values and standards for which the organization was founded upon. Other responsibilities include participation in chapter activities such as meetings, educational/leadership programs, community service events, social activities, and IGC-sponsored events.

In order to remain an active member in a Greek organization, you must maintain a minimum cumulative 2.0 grade point average. The total chapter and associate member collective grade point averages must maintain the minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA requirement in order for the organization to remain in good standing with the IGC.

What is the financial obligation to join a Greek organization?
Dues vary widely from chapter to chapter and are can be higher the first semester of affiliation. As you get to know Greek members on campus, be sure to ask them specific questions related to the financial obligation for their individual organization.

What is the time commitment involved with membership in a Greek organization?

Membership in a Greek organization requires a considerable time commitment from each person. However, the more time a member spends with the members in their organization and at chapter activities, the more benefits a student will receive from their membership. Just like any other activity, the more you put into it, the more you will get out.

Does UVa-Wise offer Greek Chapter Housing?
UVa-Wise does not currently offer Greek housing on campus. Any off-campus residences occupied by members of Greek organizations are not recognized by the College as Greek housing.

Who do I contact for more information?

Please contact Jason Lewkowicz, IGC advisor, at 276/328-0178 for more information.