What are the social benefits of membership in an IFC fraternity?
IFC fraternities provide many rich opportunities for socialization at the University, including brotherhood events, intramural sports, cultural awareness programs, and parties regulated by the IFC to be in compliance with Federal, State, and Local law. In addition, IFC fraternities offer vast social networks where members can develop life-long friendships and strong support networks with other men of common interests. This social outlet can be especially important to men in their 1st and 2nd year at the University as they become acclimated to University life. As with many other social organizations, alcohol can be a part of fraternity life. As a college student, you will be faced with many difficult choices, some involving the use of alcohol and other illegal substances. Educational programs through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life and the Inter-Fraternity Council encourage responsible behavior, especially with regard to alcohol use. Additionally, all chapters are obligated to engage in on-going educational forums on the subject of alcohol and other illegal substances.
Is membership in an IFC fraternity time-consuming?
The time commitment to a fraternity is a member’s choice, as the fraternities understand the academic challenges and respect involvement in other organizations and activities. In joining a fraternity, members can choose to give as much or as little of their time as they desire; often, the more energy and time a member dedicates to his fraternity, the more that member gains from the experience. The time commitment to a fraternity is often most intensive during one’s first semester of membership, although many members remain highly involved for the remainder of their undergraduate career. Being involved in a fraternity does not preclude individuals from participating in other extracurricular activities, and many members are highly active in other organizations at the University including Honor, UJC, Student Council, Sustained Dialogue, the Cavalier Daily, Residence Staff, and Madison House, among others.
Will my grades suffer if I join an IFC fraternity?
One of the core purposes of fraternal organizations is scholarship, a tenet that is extremely important to our members. The average GPA of IFC fraternity men is consistently higher than the all-male average GPA and the all-student average GPA, and throughout the Greek community, there are many Jefferson, Rodman, Echols, Holland, and Ridley scholars. In addition to providing members academic support, fraternities and sororities work to establish and build relations with faculty members through the Faculty Fellows program and sponsor forums that enhance the understanding of the world in which we live.
What is the stance on hazing?
The Inter-Fraternity Council and the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life at the University do not condone hazing in violation of the Virginia Statute or University Regulations, defined to include physical, mental, or emotional harm. The IFC, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the individual chapters are committed to ensuring that each member’s experience with Greek life is a positive and healthy one. If you experience any forms of hazing, you are encouraged to report the activity to the IFC, the University, and local officials.
What type of living accommodations will be available to me if I join an IFC fraternity?
All IFC fraternity chapters at the University have housing, and the cost of living in these houses is usually less than or comparable to the market price of living in Charlottesville. IFC fraternity men have the option of living in these houses during their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year, but this is not required. All IFC fraternity house rent fees include utilities, cable, Internet access, as well as the use of fully furnished living room areas and kitchens. In addition, IFC fraternity houses offer economical and nutritious meal plans that range from use of a full time cook to various catering services around Albemarle County.
What does it cost to be in an IFC fraternity?
The cost of membership in an IFC fraternity varies within each particular chapter, ranging from approximately $500 to $1500 each semester. Many members pay their own dues and often, local and national scholarships are available to help members meet their specific financial obligations.
How are IFC fraternities involved in community service projects and philanthropy?
Community service and philanthropic activities are an important component of IFC fraternity life at the University. Individual fraternities are committed to improving the surrounding area and contributing to the Charlottesville community through a variety of service initiatives, including partnerships with the local hospitals and the American Red Cross. The IFC also facilitates service endeavors between chapters and coordinates large-scale service projects, including home-building through Habitat for Humanity. Individual chapters support local and national philanthropies, including the Children’s Miracle Network, the Susan G. Koman Foundation, the Ronald McDonald House, and the I Have a Dream Foundation by holding annual fundraising events.
If you have any further questions, please direct them to:
Marc-Anthony Larco, Vice President for Membership