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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Interfraternity Council?

The Rhodes Interfraternity Council (IFC) is the governing body for the six (6) fraternities at Rhodes College. In addition to developing and enforcing all policies related to fraternity life, the IFC serves as an intermediary between fraternity members, fraternities, and the rest of the College community.

Is the College involved with the fraternity system?

The Greek system follows the self-governing nature of the College. However, the IFC is in constant communication with the administration and is supported by the Division of Student Affairs.

What about the negative stereotypes created by the media?

These stereotypes are false and very damaging to the Greek System. In fact, according to research done at Kent State University, 75% of the US Congress is Greek, 85% are campus leaders, and 80% of Fortune 500 Executives are Greek. These facts clearly disspell the negative stereotypes created by such movies as Animal House.

What percentage of the Rhodes Student body is involved in Greek Life?

Approximately 50%.

Does fraternity involvement have a negative impact on academic performance?

No. The All Fraternity GPA Average is approximately equal to the All Men's Average.

Do fraternities "haze"?

Hazing is prohibited by the College, the IFC, and state law. Hazing, as stated by Rhodes policy, includes not only physical harm, but also mental harm and emotional harm. The IFC, along with individual chapters, is committed to ensuring that the member's experience with Greek Life is a positive and healthy one.

What are the financial costs associated with membership in a fraternity?

While the costs vary from house to house, the average dues are generally between $300 and $500 per semester. Many fraternities offer financial assistance to their members, though, through scholarships or loans.

What are the academic benefits of membership to a fraternity?

Perhaps the greatest academic benefit of fraternity membership is the members themselves, who often serve as excellent resources for academic and career advice. In addition, each house promotes interaction between their members and the College faculty. The Inter-Fraternity Council and the individual chapters also offer study halls for their new members to further promote academics.

What are some of the service activities in which fraternities participate?

Fraternities at the College participate in a wide range of service activities, ranging from Habitat for Humanity projects to Up 'Til Dawn letter writing. The Greek system annually contributes thousands of volunteer service hours and dollars to local and national charities.

What athletic opportunities do fraternities present?

Fraternities compete in their own intramural division which offers the most rigorous competition found outside of the varsity playing fields. There is a vast variety of competitive sports possibilities that offer exercise and recreation for fraternity members. Fraternity members also compete in the annual Greek Week competition.

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