Frequently Asked Questions
How formal are the events?
The rounds ("parties") increase in formality. You will receive more information on each round from your recruitment counselors in the Recruitment 101 information session, but there is no strict dress code. Wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable, but be sure to dress warmly, as you will be walking outside between party locations.
Do I pick a sorority, or do they pick me?
Both. When choosing new members, a sorority looks at whether a recruit stands to contribute energy, personality, and loyal friendship to the chapter. Throughout recruitment, you will have the opportunity to rank the sororities in order of preference, and decide which group has the dynamic that best fits you. Yale Panhellenic then matches your choices with those of the sororities themselves when extending bids. Usually, if you feel that you've really clicked with a group, it will be reflected in the bid matching. Don't make your decision prematurely!
What if I decide this isn't for me?
There is absolutely no obligation to join a sorority, and you may withdraw from the recruitment process at any time before accepting a membership bid.
How much are membership dues?
Membership dues are paid each semester and help cover the cost of social events and other aspects of sorority life. At Yale, dues are substantially lower than for most NPC fraternities at other colleges. Dues vary for each sorority, but hover around $600 for the semester in which you join, and around $350 for each subsequent semester of membership. Each sorority's dues are different, and each sorority has different payment plans and forms of financial assistance. We do not want anyone to be discouraged from participating in recruitment, so feel free to ask about dues during rush events, or come talk to any members of the Panhellenic Council if you would like to discuss it further.
Do I need recruitment letters?
You do not need letters of support; however, you are welcome to submit them if you choose. Having them with neither hurt nor help you during the recrtuiment process.
How much of a commitment is this? Will it consume my life?
It is what you make of it. The basic time commitment is a couple hours a week. Sisters taking more active roles as officers will have greater responsibilities, and of course, sisters choose to spend time each week getting together on an informal basis. However, everyone in Greek life finds ample time to pursue outside activities.
Am I a sister for life?
Yes! Unless you withdraw your membership, you can count on a network of sisters of all ages and professions throughout the country. Sisterhood continues beyond Yale!
The rounds ("parties") increase in formality. You will receive more information on each round from your recruitment counselors in the Recruitment 101 information session, but there is no strict dress code. Wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable, but be sure to dress warmly, as you will be walking outside between party locations.
Do I pick a sorority, or do they pick me?
Both. When choosing new members, a sorority looks at whether a recruit stands to contribute energy, personality, and loyal friendship to the chapter. Throughout recruitment, you will have the opportunity to rank the sororities in order of preference, and decide which group has the dynamic that best fits you. Yale Panhellenic then matches your choices with those of the sororities themselves when extending bids. Usually, if you feel that you've really clicked with a group, it will be reflected in the bid matching. Don't make your decision prematurely!
What if I decide this isn't for me?
There is absolutely no obligation to join a sorority, and you may withdraw from the recruitment process at any time before accepting a membership bid.
How much are membership dues?
Membership dues are paid each semester and help cover the cost of social events and other aspects of sorority life. At Yale, dues are substantially lower than for most NPC fraternities at other colleges. Dues vary for each sorority, but hover around $600 for the semester in which you join, and around $350 for each subsequent semester of membership. Each sorority's dues are different, and each sorority has different payment plans and forms of financial assistance. We do not want anyone to be discouraged from participating in recruitment, so feel free to ask about dues during rush events, or come talk to any members of the Panhellenic Council if you would like to discuss it further.
Do I need recruitment letters?
You do not need letters of support; however, you are welcome to submit them if you choose. Having them with neither hurt nor help you during the recrtuiment process.
How much of a commitment is this? Will it consume my life?
It is what you make of it. The basic time commitment is a couple hours a week. Sisters taking more active roles as officers will have greater responsibilities, and of course, sisters choose to spend time each week getting together on an informal basis. However, everyone in Greek life finds ample time to pursue outside activities.
Am I a sister for life?
Yes! Unless you withdraw your membership, you can count on a network of sisters of all ages and professions throughout the country. Sisterhood continues beyond Yale!
