Recruitment FAQs
How does fraternity recruitment work at MTSU?
The Interfratermity Council has an open structure recruitment process. This means
organizations have the opportunity to recruit year-round and extend bids at any time.
This system allows chapters and potential members the opportunity to develop stronger
relationships before a bid is given or received. IFC hosts several recruitment events
in the beginning of the fall and spring semesters so if you are interested in joining
these are two times where it is easy to meet all groups.
If I attend fraternity recruitment events, do I have to join?
No. Recruitment is a time to see what fraternities can offer you. Attending recruitment
events does not commit you to join.
Don't fraternities take up a lot of time?
Fraternity membership requires anywhere from 2 to 4 hours a week. Whether it be a
community service project, planning an event, or regular weekly meetings, members
have learned to manage their time wisely with other commitments such as schoolwork,
a job, and significant others. This is why so many members have succeeded in their
lives.
If I'm new to campus, should I wait until I know my way around classes and campus
before I join?
MTSU is a large campus with 20,000 students. The sooner you know more people, the
more comfortable you will feel on campus. By joining your first year, you will find
adjusting to life at MTSU a lot easier. Most members who don't join their first year
wished they had.
Are fraternities just like those on TV and in the movies?
Every fraternity is different and unique. MTSU prides itself on hosting 10 IFC fraternities,
each with their own characteristics and personalities. The images portrayed in the
movies and on TV shows do not reflect those attitudes at MTSU.
Won’t joining a fraternity affect my GPA?
Fraternities serve as a great resource for students academically through study hours
and tutoring programs. Most chapters require a high grade point average for initial
membership into the organization. Many of our chapters pride themselves on their outstanding
academic achievements because they hold grade point averages higher than the minimum
requirement.
Do I have to live in a fraternity house if I join?
When it comes to fraternity housing, each chapter is different. Fraternities with
houses off campus may have their own specific requirements for occupying the chapter
house. We encourage you to ask each fraternity their requirements!
How long will I be a new member?
Some groups have shorter new member periods than others. As a new member, you will
participate in an educational program specific to your organization. During this process,
you will learn the history of the organization, the organization’s structure, time
management, policies specific to your national organization, local chapter and FSL
at MTSU and much more.
How can I learn more about individual fraternities, in order to narrow down my selection?
You are encouraged you to explore all of the fraternal organizations MTSU has to offer
and meet as many chapters as possible before accepting a bid. We suggest you begin
by signing up to receive recruitment information online. We also suggest doing research
online, such as the fraternities profile on www.mtsu.edu/mymt, social media, etc. Other resources include the FSL annual report, scholarship report,
and fraternity websites. Most fraternities on campus have their own websites that
can be accessed from the FSL website.
What are the financial obligations for IFC fraternity membership?
It is important for students and parents to be as informed as possible regarding the
costs associated with obtaining a college education. Understanding the financial obligations
associated with fraternity membership is just as important. During recruitment activities,
a potential member should ask fraternity members about the financial obligations and
payment options as each fraternity sets its own fees and payment schedules.