By: Clyde Aldus

Triskelion

The words fraternity and sorority were derived from the Latin words “frater” for brother and “soror” for sister. Fraternities and sororities are organizations that host charitable events. The names of the different types of fraternities/ sororities consist of two or three Greek letter; it is for that reason that fraternities and sororities are known collectively as a Greek society or community.

A sorority or a fraternity has its own rules, rituals and traditions starting from secret handshakes and meetings to their own housing situations, they often have a number of symbols by which they are identified such as certain colors or item like badges and pins. All their apparels for example shirts, jewelry, pants, bags and key chains carry their unique Greek letters on them.

With that being said it is obvious that these organizations believe that their own unique group is sacred and special, therefore there is a whole process and procedure that is followed in order to all new members to join and be a part of a sorority or a fraternity.

The process of joining a fraternity or sorority commonly begins with a recruitment period also known as “rush week” or “service”. This period is commonly designed for events and activities for both members and potential members.

Before anyone could join or become a member one has to go through services of snags and embarrassing situations in order to be accepted such is called “hell week” still part of the service process for some fraternities/ sororities, among these instances include tailing a fraternity member from a certain distance and that they were not allowed to socialize with anyone except a fraternity member he follows. In many instances, aspirants are not allowed to leave the fraternity house/territory unless bound for their classes. Memorizing the Greek alphabets and codes of conducts are vital to aspirants.

However, fraternity/sorority often gets involved in charitable activities such as providing assistance to less fortunate children/individual s, migrant workers/OFW and distressed adults. And raising money for healthcare services. Being part of a fraternity will benefit anyone who joins because it establishes bond and friendship which last a lifetime and in brothers and sisters are sworn to help each other in times of need and danger.

Finally, fraternities and sororities have adopted a unique and odd ritual called “hazing” or initiations.

The initiation occasion has raised several issues, because many aspirants suffered physical and psychological abuse and in many instances many have lost their lives.

Hazing started after World War 1 when soldiers who were to enter colleges brought back strict disciplines to authority, which rooted out from boot camps. Hazing was taken away too far by many and inhuman acts were enforced or new members such as burning, kidnapping, sexual favors, drugs and bribes. Hazing has been banned and is illegal in most US States, the Philippines. Many sororities and fraternities have their own unique culture that provides quite the unusual experience. Many students join fraternities and sororities for many reasons but for some who think of it as a “cult” is pointless.

Joining sorority and fraternity organizations is a personal choice, some may resent the idea of having to go through hassles just to belong to a group but make their own friends in the university nor community their own way.

On the other hand, there are those who are willing to try something different to come out with a new and unique experience and with endless stories to tell and memories to hold on to that will last forever.

Again, the choice is yours to make…