How to Start a Sorority or Fraternity

Have you ever wanted to join a sorority but did not find one that quite fit you?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Interested people
• An Advisor
• Constitution
• School Approval

1. Determine what you’re looking for in an organization and what you have to offer to one as well. Then decide whether or not it may complement one another. It is really important that you truly take the time to establish this so that you can find one that fits you the best.

2. If you feel as though there are not any sororities or fraternities on your campus that exhibit the values you wish to pursue, then begin researching online. Use a search engine and type in the type of sorority or fraternity you are interested in. For example, if you are looking for an ethnic organization you may try: African American, Asian, or Hispanic sororities/fraternities. You can search for a specific religious sorority/fraternity. There are also sororities and fraternities for specific college majors, so that may be of interest as well.

3. After you have conducted your research, which may take awhile, compile a list of organizations that you are interested in along with contact information. If you are unable to find a contact, try searching specifically for that organization to see if there are other chapters. I would initially contact them by e-mail first, expressing that you are interested in learning more about the organization. Compile a list of questions that you may have and include your ideas of what you are seeking in an organization. They should also provide you with the requirements of the organization.

4. Once you have decided on the organization, you must begin the process of chartering it to your campus. This includes gathering other interested men or women. Most recommend a minimum of ten people. Next contact your schools student organization office and find out the steps you must complete in order to become an official organization.

Tips & Warnings

• It is hard work, but do not get discouraged! You will love it even more because you help start it!
• Make sure you utilize your resources! They are just excited about it as you are and they will be more than willing to help you.
• Make sure the organization is a non-hazing organization.

[Psalmist4M]

on 10/26/2008 This is a great article & I commend you for the research and the effort to do this. I was one of the first blacks to attend my college & was not allowed to be part of many of the sororities so we started our own organization which is still active today...thanks for sharing. 5*s

[JimboJambo]

on 10/23/2008 I always joked that i would start a fraternity for psych majors. I was going to call it Sigma Delta Freud. Maybe now i can. Great info.

[listenhere101]

on 10/22/2008 Great article.

[huanton]

on 10/22/2008 Very interesting. Good article. 5 stars!